A Special Christmas for My Dragon Girls Team

Every Christmas our girls select a team mate's name from the hat to exchange gifts during our Christmas party. No one is supposed to know who has who and it becomes a teaser with little gifts being given each day during the two weeks leading up to Christmas. "Secret Santa" has been a tradition for countless years and the girls always look forward to it. But this year we decided it would be more meaningful if our athletes could give to the less fortunate and hopefully learn the true meaning of the Christmas spirit. Our team parents and GAGE staff loved the idea so everyone pitched in to make this happen. Linabelle Finnegan contacted social agencies in Kansas City to help us select needy children and their parents. Their names, gender, and ages were written on a tree ornament and hung on our Christmas tree in the lobby. The girls picked one name to buy a fitting gift. The adults received $25 gift cards. We planned a Bump City party with food and Santa making an appearance. Cans of food were collected/donated to be passed on to the participating agencies (Sheffield Place, Bridge Home, and Hillcrest Place). It was really an eye opener for the girls and a fantastic experience for all. We now have a new holiday tradition and an enlightened girls team who can truly appreciate how fortunate they are.

From Armine and me------Happy Holidays to you all!