11-30-2012

 

WAYS TO GIVE MORE THAN GIFTS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

During the holiday season, we are often focused on gifts that would be perfect for our friends and family.  While exchanging gifts with our loved ones is a joyous occasion, the holidays are also an ideal time to give of yourself to those in greater need.

There are opportunities to help and serve others all around us, especially during the holidays. Salvation Army bell ringers are needed throughout the season, Operation Christmas Child offers presents to children who might otherwise not receive gifts, local churches often have programs for service, the local food pantry can always use help, as can the Greenville Regional Hospital Auxiliary and their Thrift Shop.

These are but a few of the opportunities to help others in our area.  Giving feels good so make helping someone else a part of your holidays.  Contact information or links for several local organizations are below.

Salvation Army

(Call Frank Joy at Bradford National Bank or see your nearby bell ringer)

Bond County Food Pantry:

Bond County Senior Center
305 S Third St.
618-664-1465

Toys For Joy and Operation Christmas Child:

Greenville First Christian Church
1100 Killarney
618-664-0350
Email: info@greenvillefcc.org

 

Greenville Regional Hospital and Auxiliary:

http://www.greenvilleregionalhospital.com/?page_id=632

 

American Red Cross:

http://www.redcross.org/support

“A CHRISTMAS CAROL” AT KASKASKIA COLLEGE

The Kaskaskia College Theatre Guild will perform the Dickens holiday classic “A Christmas Carol” Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, December 7-9, in the Jane Knight Auditorium.  There is no admission charge and performances begin at 7:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 2:00 p.m. Sunday.  Refreshments will be served following each performance.  For more information, call 545-3182.

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CHRISTMAS LIGHTS WONDERLAND AT AMERICAN FARM HERITAGE

The Christmas Lights Wonderland at the American Farm Heritage Museum is open now through Tuesday, January 1, from 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. nightly.  Fridays and Saturdays, visit with Santa Claus, ride the Christmas Train, and visit an 1800’s Christmas at Hill’s Fort.  Refreshments are served every night in the Little Red Barn.  There is no admission charge but donations are appreciated.  For more information, call 664-4189.

HIGHLAND AREA WOMEN’S CONNECTION BRUNCH

The Highland Area Women’s Connection Brunch is Tuesday, December 11, from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m., at Farmer’s Restaurant & Bakery.  The theme is “Ring in the Season” and Betty Steiner will have hands-on fun for all.  The speaker is Shirley Wheatly presenting “Cups of Life,” reflecting on how cups can bring memories to life.  Membership is not required and all area women are welcome.  The cost is $11.00 per person, payable at the door and reservations are required.  Call 920-0008.