Marklund hosts annual gift opening event

Dozens of volunteers arrived at the Marklund Wasmond Center in Elgin, the Marklund Philip Center in Bloomingdale, and the Marklund Hyde Center in Geneva to take part in the nonprofit’s annual Community Gift Opening Day.

The volunteers gave of their time to assist the 174 residents, all of whom have severe and profound developmental disabilities, with opening their holiday gifts, all which were donated through the annual Giving Tree gift drive.

“We love having people of all ages volunteer for this special day,” said Melanie Toth, volunteer engagement specialist. “It not only gives the residents a chance to open their gifts, but to be surrounded by people who are here just for them during the holiday season. Many of them are friends they’ve seen year after year, while others are new friends. It’s a great chance to connect them with the community.”

For information about volunteering at Marklund, visit www.marklund.org.