Global Calgary’s annual Morning of Giving event, a beacon of holiday generosity, once again illuminated the city with its resounding success, achieving a record-breaking fundraising feat to bolster the Magic of Christmas initiative in its mission to spread festive cheer throughout the community. Held on the morning of December 11, 2024, at the ATCO Blue Flame Kitchen, the event transformed into a hub of altruism, witnessing an outpouring of support from Calgarians eager to contribute to a worthy cause. The collective efforts of Global Calgary’s Leslie Horton, Santa Claus, his diligent elves, and numerous community volunteers ensured the smooth execution of the three-hour event, facilitating the collection of a substantial volume of donations.
The Morning of Giving campaign resonated deeply with the hearts of Calgarians, drawing hundreds of individuals who carved time out of their busy schedules to contribute to the cause. Donors generously offered a diverse array of new, unwrapped gifts, encompassing essential household items, warm clothing, age-appropriate toys, and coveted electronics. In addition to these tangible gifts, the event also received a significant influx of cash donations and gift cards, further amplifying the impact of the fundraising drive. This impressive display of community spirit underscores the profound commitment of Calgarians to uplift those in need, particularly during the holiday season.
The logistical process following the donation drive involved the efficient transfer of all collected toys to the Magic of Christmas warehouse. Here, a dedicated team of volunteers meticulously sorted and organized the gifts based on age appropriateness and other relevant factors, preparing them for distribution to deserving families on Christmas Eve. This streamlined system ensures that the generosity of Calgarians reaches those who need it most, bringing joy and comfort during the festive period.
By midday on Wednesday, the remarkable generosity of Calgarians had propelled the total fundraising amount to over $224,000, a testament to the event’s resounding success. With the continued influx of donations expected throughout the day, the final tally is projected to be even higher, setting a new benchmark for the Morning of Giving initiative. This exceptional achievement reflects not only the spirit of giving that pervades the city but also the effective organization and execution of the event.
Leslie Horton, a key figure in the Morning of Giving event, expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support received from the community. She highlighted the transformative power of these donations, emphasizing their ability to bring smiles to countless faces this Christmas. The event’s success serves as a powerful reminder of the positive impact that collective action can have, particularly during times of need.
The Morning of Giving initiative exemplifies the true spirit of the holiday season, fostering a sense of unity and compassion within the community. The record-breaking fundraising achievement, coupled with the outpouring of support from Calgarians, underscores the enduring power of collective giving and the profound impact it can have on the lives of those less fortunate. The event’s success sets a high standard for future charitable endeavors, inspiring further acts of kindness and reinforcing the importance of community engagement in creating a more compassionate society.
