Founded in 1987 by a postal worker named James Gray, in Mount Dora, Florida, this organization continues to thrive. Jim noticed that some of the families on his route were suffering from hardships that made any Christmas gift giving impossible. He and fellow postal workers got together and purchased gifts with their own money and surprised the families with clothes, shoes, and toys to these needy, yet very grateful families... and the legacy lives on.
Today, Adopt-A-Child for Christmas serves nearly 350 families, including 830 children – all recommended by school guidance counselors as needing help this Christmas, and each year this need grows. The organization is 100% volunteer, many of the volunteers having been associated with this organization for more than 20 years. All of its board members donate their time and service, and we appreciate their dedication and commitment. Every penny donated goes back to providing gifts for the children. Even our building space is donated.
It is a labor of love by many in the community, and the community always responds - be it published articles in the Orlando Sentinel, Department stores like Kohl’s who donate staff members to help with the mountain of tasks to the people of Lake County who each year donate enough money, clothes and toys to make the holiday season a total success. What are the areas served? Mount Dora, Eustis, Tavares, Umatilla, Sorrento and Astatula.
If you are interested in becoming a part of this seasonal volunteer program please contact us.
John Schneider, a tireless volunteer Board member for Adopt-a-Child, passed away on April 27, 2010 at the age of 84 years young. He will be forever remembered for his love for the children of Lake County. John was a spark plug for the volunteers and fellow Board members. His constant smile, words of encouragement and honest praise gave us a lift when we were certain that we could not possibly take on the Christmas wishes of yet another child. John also volunteered for Head Start where he made certain that the children had the basics of life including underwear. He will be remembered by his friends everywhere for his optimism, kind spirit and compassion for all people. If we are on earth to be happy, make others happy, and leave the world a better place, John fulfilled his life’s purpose. He shall be forever missed.
Respects
Adopt a child (or two) for Christmas
“Never let a child’s dream go unanswered" - Jim Gray