33 Years of Spreading the Joy

The Joy of Giving just held its 33rd successful annual event. This year 1,180 children in 475 families will realize a happier holiday season because of ‘the Joy’. Organizer Nicki Davis said, “The beginning of each year the money to be raised seems an insurmountable task, yet with the dedication and perseverance of every person involved in ‘the Joy’, we pull it off!” 

The Joy of Giving is fortunate to have Allyson Richards on board as Nicki’s right hand. The Island Country Club Charitable Foundation plays the most crucial role in the success of ‘the Joy’ not only financially, but through volunteer participation, as well.

The Joy of Giving identifies families in need, raises the funds required, and with the consent of Walmart, allows families to shop for gifts for their children without money changing hands. Funding goes directly from ‘the Joy’ to Walmart. Success is also reliant on other organizations like the Noontime Rotary Club, Marco Office Supplies and the Elizabeth K. Galeana Charitable Foundation to name just a few.

“The goal is to put a smile on a child’s face during the holidays,” Nicki exclaims. ‘The Joy’ is so much more, making parents smile and all the volunteers, too!