North Suburban YMCA Presents Day of Giving Back on December 1
Combining family fun with community service, the North Suburban YMCA invites the public to participate in its first "Holiday Giveback" event on Saturday, December 1. From 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., guests of all ages can participate in a volunteer project helping those in need, while also enjoying holiday crafts, activities, and a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
"This is a great opportunity to celebrate the spirit of the holiday season," notes Kim Nyren, NSYMCA Senior Manager of Community Investment. "Families will be able to make special memories together, knowing that they are brightening the holidays of others in our community."
Guests at the event can help pack "blessing bags" of everyday essentials that will be distributed to individuals through Project I Am and the YWCA Evanston/North Shore. Project I Am provides the blessing bags to homeless individuals in the Chicagoland area, and the YWCA's Domestic Violence Programing delivers to individuals and families dealing with abuse across the entire Northeastern Metropolitan Chicago Area. Throughout the month of November, the NSYMCA will be collecting personal necessities like travel size toiletries, granola bars, socks and other items to fill the blessing bags. Local businesses like Northwestern Medicine and Yummy Dental of Glenview have already donated items including bandages, hand sanitizer, toothpaste, and toothbrushes.
In addition to the service opportunity, the Holiday Giveback Event will offer other activities to put guests in a festive mood. Children can participate in an art project, cookie decorating, or enjoy a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Photos with be available throughout the event to encourage kids to be extra nice throughout the season. DJs from Bach to Rock will keep the atmosphere upbeat with holiday music favorites.
The NSYMCA's Holiday Giveback event is open to the public and free of charge. Registration is recommended to ensure there are enough cookies and supplies. The NSYMCA is located at 2705 Techny Road in Northbrook. For more information about the North Suburban YMCA, visit NSYMCA.org.
About the North Suburban YMCA
Celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 2018/19, the North Suburban YMCA provides individuals in Northbrook and 15 surrounding communities with programs and tools that help them become healthier, more connected, and confident, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. The NSYMCA focuses on Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility and is a charitable organization, inclusive and welcoming to all in our community. Learn more at NSYMCA.org.