A note from the director of the Palatine Opportunity Center reflecting on the spirit of Christmas

Was it

…..the smile on the face of a child receiving toys for Christmas?

….the tears of joy on the cheeks of an overwhelmed mother ?

…..the relief in the eyes of a proud father now able to share holiday magic with his family?

Every year the spirit of Christmas will take away our breath and make us want to sing with joy. We can’t predict when this will happen, and it certainly can’t be forced.  Something will touch us and we will experience the goodness of humanity and the love in the hearts of people. 

The Palatine Opportunity Center staff , board, and social service agencies were able to share the joy  and spirit of the holidays from December 1st to December 24th with over 485 people this year due to the generosity and efforts of the following angels in our community:

Deer Grove Covenant Church-snow pants for all ages

Palatine Garden Club-coloring books and beanie babies for preschool children

Kushner Family from Palatine McDonalds-hats, scarves, mitten for all ages for Giving Tree

Palatine Whole Foods-special lotions, socks, and treats for all ages

Sue Gould and Starck, Realtors-toys

The Cornerstone Breakfast Club-toys

The Cornerstone Breakfast Group-toys

The Cornerstone Surge Group-toys

Prince of Peace Church-homemade mittens for Giving Tree

The Kiewert Family-socks for Giving Tree

Fremd Student Council-toys

Thrive Vineyard Church-gifts for families

Salt Creek Park District –hats, scarves, mittens for Giving Tree

Immanuel Lutheran School-gifts for families

Palatine Bank and Trust-coats for children

Thank you for sharing your joy and love in 2012. I was able to witness this power of your caring and it provided healing for the suffering, warmth for the cold, and light for the hopeless. Bless you all and may 2013 be a prosperous and healthy year!

K.M.