As the holiday season unfolded, Lommen Abdo Activities Committee orchestrated a charity drive that resonated with the true spirit of giving. This year, our focus was on making a meaningful impact on two charities that hold a special place in our hearts: Minnesota Children’s Hospital and Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep (NILMDTS).
Charities Close to Our Hearts
Minnesota Children’s Hospital
Our journey began with a heartfelt connection to Minnesota Children’s Hospital. For one of our team members, this hospital played a crucial role in supporting her son during a challenging time. This institution stands as a beacon of hope and healing for children facing health challenges. Committed to providing comprehensive care, the hospital offers a wide range of specialized services, from pediatric surgery to critical care. What sets Minnesota Children’s Hospital apart is its dedication to creating an environment that nurtures not just the physical well-being but also the emotional and mental well-being of its young patients. The atmosphere of the hospital provides a safe and supportive space for young warriors battling illnesses. Minnesota Children’s Hospital doesn’t just treat illnesses; it empowers young minds to dream, play, and overcome.
Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep
NILMDTS, our second chosen charity, holds a unique and poignant mission. NILMDTS provides remembrance photography to parents who have experienced the loss of a baby. Through this service, the organization offers a compassionate and free gift of professional portraiture, providing grieving families with tangible memories. The organization plays a crucial role in acknowledging the significance of every life, no matter how brief. By providing families with cherished photographs, NILMDTS turns pain into a legacy of love. They are dedicated to ensuring that every family facing such a profound loss has the opportunity to commemorate the precious moments with their child.
NILMDTS provided impactful services for one of our team members during the heartbreaking loss of her son. “These pictures provided us with our only memory of our son and the ability to share him with the world, which was, and still is, very important to me. I will be forever grateful to NILMDTS and our photographer who volunteered her time away from her own family to capture these most precious photos.”
Fundraiser Events Throughout the Holiday Season
Throughout the week of November 13th to 17th, our Candy Gram initiative was a sweet success. Team members exchanged messages, fostering an atmosphere of kindness in honor of World Kindness Day. This small yet impactful gesture not only lifted spirits but also contributed to the funds that will bring positive change to the lives touched by our chosen charities.
Our chili lunch, held on November 15th, transformed our workplace into a warm and welcoming space. The success of this event was a testament to the generosity of all contributors. We were happy for a chance to gather, share a meal, and continue to contribute to our donation fund.
Adding a touch of friendly competition, the football board for the Minnesota-Wisconsin game (Gophers versus Badgers) on November 25th garnered enthusiastic participation. This interactive fundraising approach not only raised funds but also created a sense of camaraderie among our team members.
Heartfelt Contributions and Beyond
The spirit of giving radiated throughout November, and the results were nothing short of heartening. The collective efforts of our team, clients, and partners culminated in a substantial donation that will leave a lasting impact on the lives of families supported by NILMDTS.
To extend our gratitude to Minnesota Children’s Hospital, we assembled kits for the young patients and their parents. The Activity Kits, designed for an age range of three to seven, included items like activity/coloring books, crayons, markers, and sticker books. Simultaneously, the Toiletry Kits aimed to provide comfort to parents/guardians with essentials like travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lip balm.
Tags with items for the kits were placed on Christmas trees at both our Minneapolis and Hudson offices. Team members were invited to take a tag (or multiple tags), purchase the specified items, and bring the unwrapped contributions into the office by December 19th. We then assembled the kits for donation.
Looking Forward
The spirit of giving continues to thrive at Lommen Abdo. The dedication of the Activities Committee to making a positive impact on the lives of those facing challenges remains unwavering throughout the year. Stay tuned for more initiatives and events as we carry forward our tradition of giving back in the coming years.
