Arc encouraging public help for annual Secret Christmas
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PARKERSBURG -- The Arc of the Mid-Ohio Valley is looking for public support for its annual Secret Christmas program.
The Arc supports people with intellectual, cognitive or related developmental disabilities. Participants in Secret Christmas are above the age for assistance from other community programs and have a financial need with little or no support from families to cover clothing, grooming, transportation and other social needs.
"Many participants live on fixed incomes and this is likely to be the only Christmas they receive," Alexis Ullmann, program and activities coordinator of The Arc, said. "Without the Annual Secret Christmas program many would go without a gift to open on Christmas morning."
Past community donations for the program have supported 250 people get Christmas wishes, Doug Hess, chief operating manager of The Arc, said.
"The Arc needs volunteers to help shop, donate, or wrap gifts in order to provide Christmas gifts and household items to adults and teens 13 years and older," Hess said.
Last year, individuals, clubs, businesses, organizations and churches contributed money, time and supplies to bring Christmas cheer to people.
"We are so fortunate to live in a community that comes together and creates real Christmas magic for our relatives, neighbors, and friends" Executive Director Michelle Curtis said. "With the help of The Marietta Community Foundation, we are expanding this year to serve participants from Washington Co., Ohio. This truly reflects the Mid Ohio Valley area and we are excited to grow our coverage area."
The PM Company's Spirit of Giving, Vienna Baptist Church Children and Families Fund and a grant from Rotary of Wood County are among the supporters that helped fund the project.
A person can be sponsored with a $50 donation. The Arc will purchase and wrap the gifts with the assistance of volunteers at a Wrap Party in November at South Parkersburg Baptist Church.
Donors can request a wish list, purchase the gifts and bring them to The Arc office or encourage a club, church group, office or other organization to be a Secret Christmas sponsor.
"If you are looking for a way to make your holiday season a little more meaningful, join us to wrap, laugh, enjoy each other's company and share the spirit of Christmas. We always have great snacks and Christmas tunes," Ullmann said.
To get involved, contact Ullmann at 304-422-3151 ext. 114, by email to alexis.ullmann@thearcmov.org or go to thearcmov.org to download a sponsorship form.