‘Tis the Season for the Joy of Giving

By Coastal Breeze News Staff

In just a few short weeks, the charity Nicki Davis founded in 1988 once again will perform their elf-like duties by allowing underprivileged children to experience the magic of Christmas. So how does this work? Many have heard about the Joy of Giving but don’t fully understand its operation.

Organizations throughout the year raise funds and donate to the Joy of Giving. The Joy of Giving, through teachers in the Collier County School District and through organizations like Sports Camp and Parks Departments, identify children in need and the number of other children in that household. Parents are invited to a shopping event at Walmart. Parents check in once they arrive and are given a dollar amount they can spend. The items purchased must be age appropriate for the children. Every penny collected goes toward giving these children a wonderful

holiday.

Nicki says, “We were shocked when we started to reach 1,000 children a year. Each year, many people and organizations in this area step up and meet the challenge! It is truly amazing. Organizations like Island Country Club Children’s Foundation, Rotary Clubs, Marco Riders, and more. They donate generously, not only financially, but they make sure the event runs smoothly and successfully by volunteering their time as well.”

• This year’s Joy of Giving shopping event will be on December 12 at 6:00 AM at Walmart, 6650 Collier Boulevard, Naples.
• The Ride for Joy Poker Run fundraiser will be held November 29, starting at 8:30 AM with registration and breakfast, at 701 Bistro at 701 Bald Eagle Drive, Marco Island. The first bike leaves at 10 AM. Cost is $25 per bike/$10 rider.

If you would like more information, or would like to donate or volunteer, contact Nicki at 239-642-0119.