If November is the month that we count our blessings, December is the giving month when we share with friends and family, and those less fortunate than ourselves.
At our December meeting, we forgo a speaker and have a catered luncheon where we get to enjoy each other‘s company. We also take up collections for local charities.
We collect money for YCAP; the Yamhill Community Action Partnership. YCAP runs the local food bank, but also helps with energy assistance, rental assistance, housing stabilization, and services for youth.
We collect money for Henderson House. Henderson House helps victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and human sex trafficking. They provide crisis intervention, an emergency 90-day shelter and service referrals for help with beginning a new safe life.
We collect money for Juliette’s House. Their goal is a world free from child abuse. They provide assessment, treatment, and support for children and families affected by abuse.
We collect money for A Family Place; run by the Lutheran Community Services. They assist young families who have little support and are facing multiple stressors. They provide a relief nursery, home visits, parent education, and give out diapers.
Finally, the First Presbyterian Church, where we meet, gives a Saturday night dinner for all who are hungry. The weather has turned colder. They need donations of socks, coats, gloves, and hats to give to those having to endure the elements.
Thanks to the efforts of our creative scarecrow assemblers, our club has earned third place last year and this year. Third place wins a $50 MAC Bucks gift card. At our November meeting, we decided to donate a card each to Henderson House and Juliette’s House.
As a club, we make several charitable contributions. The money to continue doing so is raised at our annual Tour and Faire. Our largest contribution is through scholarships to deserving students. We also make yearly donations to the Community Garden, Zero Waste, and the Yamhill County Fair to assist 4-H members.
We give our time and monies when necessary to maintain green spaces within our community. We maintain the Post Office and the West End Garden. We care for the indoor library plants. We clean up the ivy in the tree wells on Third Street. We have created the Serenity Garden. Our Garden Tour and Faire will on June 8th in 2025. Let’s work together to have another successful outcome!!
But for now, take care of those last-minute tasks in the garden when the weather permits and have a glorious holiday season with friends and family.
