This year, WBAI collected donations for and attended the Daisie Foundation Holiday Event on December 7th. The event was bursting with holiday spirit and generosity for one of Chicago’s most vulnerable populations.
Caroleann Gallagher, WBAI Director, wrote on the impact that this event had on not only the children and school staff, but her as well:
“This was my second year representing WBAI and assisting and attending the Daisie Foundation Holiday Magic Event. The event takes months and months of planning and a huge amount of support and generosity to make it happen. The entire day and all the surprises that the children and teachers receive are a complete surprise to everyone at the school except the Principal. To say that I was the lucky one to be able to be a part of this day would be an understatement. It truly was one of the highlights of my year.
The absolute joy and happiness this event brought to my heart is beyond words. I cannot explain how wonderful this event, The Daisie Foundation and the many many volunteers and sponsors who make it happen, are. The remainder of my words go to the children of Deneen Elementary School – Just look at those happy, beautiful faces -they absolutely stole my heart and are simply put – pure joy!
I was there to help and give my time, but truth be told, it was the brilliant children of this School who helped me – they helped me remember the true meaning of the Holidays and that giving your time, a smile, a hug, a high five, a dance, just anything, is what it is all about. The gratitude and happiness shown by the kids and the school staff, for this amazing day, will stay with me forever. I will never miss this event if I can help it and it is already in my calendar for next year. Please come to this event next year – I promise you; you will not regret it”
-Caroleann Gallagher, Director WBAI.
As made clear by the images, this event was alive with joy and generosity. It was a day that truly embodies the idea of holiday magic, and is one that WBAI is honored to be a part of. Thank you to all of our WBAI members who donated and volunteered.
Photo credit courtesy of Sonya Martin Photography and Madi Ellis Photography