HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015-12-12 - Spirit of Giving - Volunteer Opportunities (Dec 7-12)City of Tukwila
Jim Haggerton, Mayor
Parks & Recreation Department Rick Still, Director
Good afternoon,
I have participated in the Spirit of Giving Campaign for over 10 years and as we continue to grow
from serving 30 families to over 100 last year, I am overwhelmed with pride as I reflect on the
relationships we've witnessed developed and love shared by those who have supported this program
along the way.
The City of Tukwila, though abundant with business traffic is unique in diversity and residential
living. Last year, the Tukwila School District estimated over 330 of our students were homeless
making Tukwila the highest rated district at 10.2% of King County's homeless students. In
perspective, children ages 5 -18 years old are either living in shelters, hotels /motels or on the streets.
These numbers not only reveal the growing need of services for a warm bed to sleep or a simple
meal, but basic necessities like toiletry, clean underwear, and warm clothing is hard to come by.
What does all of this mean? Every little bit counts which in turn is something big for families in
need. Your support of this program makes a bigger difference than you could imagine. So as we've
done for several years, I'm reaching out to you with the hope that you will join me as we increase
ways to help those challenged by circumstances beyond their control.
The Spirit of Giving Program is coordinated by event staff but works in partnership with several
businesses and local residents. Program recipients are recommended to us by Tukwila School District
employees and Tukwila's Human Services Department. Families receive a personal invitation to our
giving event held on Saturday, December 12th. At the event, families `shop' our store (supplied with
donated gift items) where they select toys, educational games, clothing for their children, grocery gift
cards and basic household goods. While parents are shopping, kids are entertained with movies
activities and treats. When parents have finished shopping, volunteers help wrap the gifts to prepare
for delivery!
I have attached a list of ways for you to continue your support, though this does not limit other
creative ideas you might have! We are here to work with you and help make this a team effort for
your organization or a growing/learning experience for your family.
Your participation will be recognized by the City of Tukwila and you and/or your organization will
be identified as an honorary donor in City -wide publications. Please contact me at (206) 768 -2822 or
Stacey.agmata@tukwilawa.gov or Shannon Fisher Shannon.fisher@tukwilawa.gov. We look forward
to working with you all!
Your donation is tax deductible. Tukwila Children's Foundation tax ID# 91- 2090192
Getting in the Spirit,
Sfvj S kto-w
Stacey Agmata Shannon Fisher
Volunteer and Events Specialist Volunteer and Events Coordinator
"Creating Community through People, Parks and Programs"
12424 42nd Ave. S. • Tukwila, Washington 98188 • Phone: 206- 768 -2822 • Fax: 206 -768 -0524
City of Tukwila
Jim Haggerton, Mayor
Parks & Recreation Department Rick Still, Director
Families, businesses, and organizations can participate in several ways:
Spirit of Giving Campaign Kick -off
On November 5th BJ's Restaurant at Westfield Southcenter has partnered with us to provide a
fundraiser event. Bring your family or plan an after work dinner gathering. BJ's Restaurant will
donate 15% of food and soft beverage sales to the campaign. (Don't forget to provide your server
with a copy of the attached flier to have your sales considered for the campaign)
"Family CARE Night"
In partnership with Strong- Bridge Consulting LLC, we will be collecting brand new socks and
underwear for kids ages 5 -18yrs to be distributed at various Tukwila School District CARE
Nights.
Unwrapped Holiday Gifts
Donate new, unwrapped gifts for children or teens, to our giving store. Families are in need of
blankets, gloves, mittens, and warm hats in various sizes. Brand new toys & gifts are also
accepted and greatly appreciated! We will provide you with a list of our most requested items to
help you with your shopping efforts!
Host a Toy, Food or Blanket Drive
We will provide you with a holiday bin and promotional materials. We will also make regular
pick -ups of the goods you collect. If your organization has a tree up during the holidays we could
provide ornaments (gift tags) for visitors or employees to choose from and purchase.
Donate Cash or Cards
Too busy to shop? We'll do it for you! Make a donation or purchase store gift cards and leave
the shopping to us. We even have some brave Black Friday shoppers to help make your dollars
stretch- Contact us to see how you can make your cash donation tax deductible.
Holiday Meals & Food Drives
The need for ongoing and emergency food supplies is currently out pacing donations. In most
need are non - perishable food items. We will provide you a list of food items most often
requested from our local food bank — the Tukwila Pantry.
Volunteer
We have many opportunities for volunteers (individuals and groups) to get involved in this
program. Volunteers can help with pre -event activities during the week of December 7 -11th, or
at the holiday event on December 12th at the Tukwila Community Center.
As we work to coordinate these opportunities our goal is to enhance the experience for donors as
they selflessly give to those in our community. We are open to your ideas to make that happen!
"Creating Community through People, Parks and Programs"
12424 42nd Ave. S. • Tukwila, Washington 98188 • Phone: 206- 768 -2822 • Fax: 206 -768 -0524