Smiling is my favorite! If you’re not familiar with the movie “Elf” that’s one of the famous lines from the main character in the film. I’ve always remembered it. Smiling is, literally, the best! Someone flashing you a smile can change your mood. Catching the giggles and belly laughs even for a moment can change your day.
Bona Vista Programs received a visit from Santa Claus last week thanks to Kokomo Firefighters Union Local 396. They always go above and beyond in bringing the holiday spirit to our organization, and the people we serve. The children started the day getting to talk to Santa about what they wanted for the holidays, eating snacks and receiving goody bags. Kohl’s even donated books to each of our preschoolers!
Not only were the children ecstatic to see Santa Claus at school, but they also received a free photo with him, thanks to Walgreens, to take home to share with their parents. All the feels and so many smiles! It was perfect!
But, the fun didn’t stop there. After spending the morning with our preschool children, the firefighters loaded up and traveled down the street to see our adult persons served at The Crossing location. With more than 30 acts, our adults performed Christmas classics, interpretive dance, comedy routines and a variety of other talents during their party. The Joyful Noise, persons served choir, led by Angie Denmark also performed. What a treat that was!
After all the acts had performed, three were selected by the KFD panel of judges as the winners. Third place went to Gary Hartsfield (who performed Blue Christmas, and dressed as Elvis), second place to Byran Wiegert (who juggled) and first place to Eric Jester (who sang The Christmas Song). Who knew we had so much talent hiding in our workshop. Truly amazing!
If you’ve never been a part of the holidays at Bona Vista Programs, you should! There are many ways to get involved and impact the lives of those we serve. This is a very special time of year for our persons served, and these events wouldn’t be possible without the support of the Kokomo Firefighters Union Local 396 (special shout out to Chris Frazier & Bryan Young who coordinate this event, and to whom we are especially grateful), Walgreens, Kohl’s, Charisse Smith & her Western FACS Club or Coca-Cola (who provided all the beverages for parties in Kokomo & Peru). Many Bona Vista Programs staff were behind the scenes making the magic happen as well – Ron Eller, Troy Bowers, Miriam O’Malley-Long, Kathy Morgan and many more! We are already counting down the days until next year’s parties!
For more information about all of Bona Vista’s Programs and how you can be a part of the fun, please visit www.bonavista.org or call 765-457-8273.
Until the next time… keep a good view on life!
-AB