Helping Hands for the Holidays raises funds for local charities
An annual holiday celebration next week will raise funds for a handful of local charities.
The 18th annual Helping Hands for the Holidays will take place on Monday from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Team Aubuchon main office. Hosted by the Aubuchon Team of Companies, the event will feature a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, holiday performances by youth, a visit from Santa Claus and more.
“It’s about coming together as a community,” Diane VanArsdale, marketing director for Aubuchon Team of Companies, said. “Sort of being inspired with the Christmas spirit, inspired to donate.”
The proceeds will benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Florida, the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southwest Florida and the Lee Building Industry Association’s Builders Care.
“The owners have a heart and passion for giving back to the community,” she said.
Last year, approximately $30,000 was raised, with each charity receiving about $10,000.
VanArsdale added that an estimated 500 people attended.
The event is free and open to the public.
“They can donate at the event,” she said. “There’s a table available.”
Representatives from each of the charities will also be on site to answer any questions.
At 6:30 p.m., the tree lighting will take place.
“We have a Rockefeller-style type of Christmas tree set up,” VanArsdale said.
The tree is approximately 18 feet tall and has about 1,000 lights.
“And then Santa Claus comes after that,” she said.
When Santa arrives, children can crawl up in his lap and share their Christmas wish list with him. Families are encouraged to bring along a camera so they can capture the holiday memories.
Entertainment will be provided by the Heights Elementary School choir.
Local restaurants have donated food, including Lighthouse Restaurant, Rumrunners, Ceno Grille, Bubba’s Roadhouse & Saloon, Lobster Lady Seafood Market, Fathoms Restaurant & Bar and Publix.
Beer, wine and soft drinks will also be available.
For more information, contact 239-542-1075 or visit: www.teamaubuchon.com/.
Those unable to attend but who would like to donate can do so online.
The Team Aubuchon main office is at 4707 S.E. Ninth Place.