“Our gifts have come in many different packages,” says Lisa Massei, director of development.
Each year the students of The O’Neal Lower School present the Children’s Center with decorative shoeboxes loaded with goodies for their very special children. The O’Neal students have been involved with Sandhills Children’s Center through numerous volunteer activities throughout the year and both schools benefit tremendously from the relationship that has been built over the years.
Jim Miles, head of the Lower School, sums up the mutual feelings for both schools: “We love you guys!”
Santa has been busy at the Children’s Center this season. His first visit was with the Kiwanis of the Pines. Several members joined in the fun of helping Santa hand out carefully selected presents for all the children. The Kiwanis has been a long time supporter of the Children’s Center for over 20 years through their contributions from the annual Travel and Adventure Series. Santa also roared into the school on his Harley Davidson flanked by over 60 members of The Wingmen Motorcycle Club. Dozens of gifts were shared along with warm wishes for a safe and happy holiday.
Giving extended beyond the generosity of the Sandhills community in the form of a $10,000 donation from American Airlines Kids Are Something Special Fund of Triangle Community Foundation. This was the second year that American Airlines has extended support to the Children’s Center.
“We feel fortunate that our local mission to young children matches well with American Airlines national efforts. We are extremely grateful to Pinehurst Resort and American Airlines for this wonderful and needed gift,” says Melanie Gayle, executive director.
“Sandhills Children’s Center has been the recipient of gifts from many friends and supporters throughout the local community during this season of giving, and the staff and families of the Children’s Center would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to all who continue to believe that when you wish upon a star, dreams really do come true,” says Gayle.
