In the blizzard of upcoming holiday events, there’s one that might be overlooked.
But it shouldn’t be.
Tomorrow (Thursday, December 1, from 5-7:30 p.m. at Christ & Holy Trinity Church), the Westport Downtown Merchants Association is sponsoring a “Season of Giving” event.
Sure, there’s the usual ho-ho-ho attractions — refreshments, an ice sculpture, a visit from Santa, music by the Orphenians and Chris Coogan — but the real attraction is a chance to do some good for some great community non-profits.
Many hands will help Westport charities tomorrow.
A variety of organizations — Homes With Hope, the Y, Save the Children and a dozen others — will have booths. They’ll hand out information — but they’ll also have “wish lists.” If something strikes your fancy, just donate to the cause.
The Westport Arts Center, for example, has “wishes” ranging from $10 (help install an art exhibit) to $250 (send a kid to summer art camp).
It’s just like real life Christmas (and Hanukkah). Sometimes you get everything you ask for; sometimes you don’t. Whatever happens, it never hurts to ask.
The “Season of Giving” is a great idea — and everyone’s a winner. Our non-profits get a chance to have their wishes filled. You get a chance do some good for a group you love — or one you never knew about — while having a good time. And your kids get a chance to learn “the true meaning of Christmas” (or Hanukkah).
PS: Really want to make a day of it tomorrow? Head to Town Hall at 4:30 p.m. for the lighting of the (very ecumenical) “town tree.” Then wander down the hill to the Westport Historical Society, for hot cocoa. And if you stop in to a store or two on your way to the “Season of Giving” at Christ & Holy Church, I’m sure the downtown merchants won’t mind.
