Each year, the Bright Beginnings Committee of Junior League of Washington organizes a holiday party for the children of Bright Beginnings. Bright Beginnings is a child and family development center that serves about 186 children annually whose families are living in crisis shelters or transitional housing. Festivities during the holiday party include entertainment, holiday activities (decorating ornaments and holiday cards) and stuffed stockings for the kids, refreshments for the parents, a festive door decorating contest and cookie packages for the teachers (with prizes!) and fun for all.

For several years, Santa, Mrs. Claus and the Banjo Man have donated their time and services to brighten the day of the children. As an added bonus, Santa also provides small gifts for the children and each child receives a framed picture of him or her sitting in Santa’s lap! This year, the JLW volunteers added Jake the Magician to the lineup, and he provided an entertaining finale to the morning activities. Windows Catering was a generous repeat supporter of the holiday party, providing delicious refreshments for the parents to enjoy.

Under the direction of Emily Harris and Andrea Contres, who lead the committee in planning the Holiday Party, the JLW members of the Bright Beginnings committee baked cookies, created festive decorations and staffed the holiday party. We appreciate all of their time and efforts and could not have executed this event without their organization and commitment.

If you’re interested in supporting Bright Beginnings, we’d love to see you at the upcoming BB 5K run on March 2, 2013. Click here to register.