On Saturday, July 17th, I had the honor of working with hundreds of volunteers for Hope Community Center’s Christmas in July giveaway.  Christmas in July is a program that benefits low income and refugee families in Charlottesville.  Nearly 1,000 people went home with free toys, clothing, furniture and other household items.  Here are some  faces of the wonderful volunteers who helped touch the lives of so many families.

This is Joshua Bare.  He is the Executive Director of Hope Community Center.

I met Sharon Seeley, the Director of Hope for Kids pictured here with a reindeer pal.  She’s a super nice lady, and she’s a Steelers fan, go Steelers!

Marianne Tolley is the Director and the prime innovator of Christmas in July.

Everyone was excited to see Santa Claus.  He made so many children smile!

These guys traveled all the way from Winchester to perform music, dance, face paint and make everyone smile.  I just loved them…. they were just a great bunch to be around.

I unfortunately didn’t catch the name of this group, but will I will post as soon as I find out.  These guys help keep the toys organized and assisted where help was needed.

Of course everybody loved these guys!

WVPT were there and helped take photos with Santa.

I made a lot of new friends including these guys, Officers Brown and Williams!

I love this group photo!

I had so much fun.  I am definitely looking forward to HOPE’s next event.   Christmas in July is just one of the many, many great things that the Hope Community Center is doing for the Charlottesville community.  If you get the chance, check out their website or call the phone number below for more information.

-Tammy

Hope Community Center * 341 11th Street NW,  Charlottesville, VA  22903 * 434-872-0200