For the 35^th year in a row, last Saturday was by far our happiest and highest energy day of the year. Former resident Kenny Jackson belted out Christmas standards while kids danced with a gingerbread man and a Christmas Tree. Our new Volunteer and Events Specialist Shana Waldinger worked her magic helping 154 volunteers—veterans and newbies—run the operation smoothly and joyfully for our 106 shoppers. Can you even imagine the wide eyes and smiles of 320 kids when Christmas Day arrives?

The Store felt like a grand reunion as always—sharing hugs and catch-up stories with current and former residents, faithful volunteers, and generous donors who make this all possible.

Everyone came together to provide:

• Gifts—even last-wave shoppers had a big selection of all-age gifts you sent, brought, and donated toward
• Volunteers—an all-smiles welcome center, hospitality room, childcare room, youth space, gift stockers, shopper’s helpers, checkout gang, gift wrappers, parking managers, gift runners, and our setup/takedown crews
• An experience of dignity—moms, dads, and grandparents paid (typically with 75% discount) for gifts they could now provide for their own children

Please enjoy more happy photos and videos on our social media @milehighmin