Who Could Forget an Angel?

Every year for as long as I can remember, my office has participated in the Salvation Army's Christmas Angel Program.  For those of you who are not familiar with the campaign, it was created to provide toys and clothese to children who are less fortunate or who's families have a financial need.  You can typically find an Angel Tree located in most malls. Once a person makes the decision to sponsor an Angel, he/she selects a paper angel from the tree that lists the childs sex, age and wish list, to include shoes and clothes (with sizes) and a few toys.  The angel is registered with an attendant, then returned at a later time or date to the tree location, with unwrapped gifts.  Recipients pick up their gifts from a designated Salvation Army pick up location before the holiday.  

This year, we decided to do something different. Instead of adopting an Angel Tree, we registered for the Forgotten Angel Campaign.  Apparently, every year for whatever reasons, people with good intentions (I'm thinking positive), will select angels from the trees, but forget (thinking positive again) to bring back gifts.  Families show up at the pick up site to pick up their presents, only to find that their gifts are not there. I can only imagine the disappointment of the children and families who were really counting on that extra support for the holidays. 

By participating in the Forgotten Angel Campaign, you can donate what is considered extra toys, clothes and gifts for children and the elderly.  When it is discovered that Angels have been forgotten, the pick up center is able to put together a package with the Forgotten Angel gifts on the spot!..How cool is that?!  Our focus this year was on toys.  For a first campaign at the last minute, I think we did a pretty good job. 

It's probably too late to pick up an Angel, but there's is still plenty of time to "Give" before the holiday, whether it be your time, or something tangible.  Below are a few suggestions if it's in your heart this season:

1.  Volunteer to host a red kettle with your Salvation Army, by ringing the bell for a couple of hours
2.  Sponsor a few care packages at a local nursing home.  Check with the Administrator to find out what their needs are
3.  Volunteer with Meals on Wheels and help deliver meals this Season
4.  Adopt a family in need through a local Charity and provide a meal for Christmas Day
5.  Do something nice for 12 diferent people each of the 12 days leading up to Christmas

These are just a few ideas to get you started.  I'm sure there are plenty more opportunities in your local areas.  Take the time this season to do something special for someone else. 

Unveiling my wings,