As many of us rush to purchase gifts and prepare for the holidays it is easy to forget that not everyone can afford to celebrate Christmas in manner they would like. NAC employees Maggie Barbosa, Luc Lumieux and Diane Meunier have taken lead roles in running the NAC Employee Christmas Cheer Campaign which started in the early 1970's. Throughout the Fall they organize numerous fundraising events - from auctions and bake sales to 50/50 ticket draws.
The campaign is capped off in mid December with the The Great Frank O'Leary Pancake Breakfast & Sidewalk Sale. By this time, the lobby has been decorated for Christmas and with any luck there is a sprinkling of snow on the ground to really set the mood. CEO Peter Herrndorf and members of senior management don chef hats and serve breakfast to the staff while everyone enjoys the carol singing provided by an impromptu employee choir. After filling up on stacks of bacon and pancakes employees peruse the tables for used books and stocking stuffers. It is a great NAC tradition.
This year the NAC's Christmas Cheer campaign raised enough money to purchase groceries and presents for 12 families. I was fortunate to able to assist with a Christmas delivery and the hug I received from that mom was truly a wonderful Christmas gift.
