Project Santa Claus: Spreading holiday joy for over three decades | Serving Minden-Gardnerville and Carson Valley

Carson Valley Chamber of Commerce Director Alicia Main at Minden Rotary.

Special to The R-C

Saturday, November 2, 2024

Alicia Main, Director of the Chamber of Commerce, shared information about Project Santa Claus with the Rotary Club of Minden this month. The Rotary Club has been involved with this project for many years.

Founded in 1988 at the Carson Valley Food Closet, Project Santa Claus has been bringing holiday cheer to local families in need for 36 years. The program’s success is rooted in the early contributions of longtime volunteers Carol Judd and Marilyn Malkmus, who helped shape it into the community-wide initiative it is today. Although they are no longer involved, their dedication laid the foundation that continues to support children across Carson Valley each Christmas season.

Community-Powered Tradition

Project Santa Claus thrives thanks to the collaborative efforts of service clubs, local businesses, community members, and volunteers. Their ongoing support helps ensure that children in need experience the joy of receiving holiday gifts.

The Family Support Council and Carson Valley Food Closet work together to enroll families in need of assistance during the holiday season. Families can register for the 2024 distribution by Monday,

December 2nd at the Carson Valley Community Food Closet. Children ages 17 and under are invited to submit two gift requests, which are placed on “Angel Cards.” These cards are displayed on Angel Tree throughout the community, allowing generous individuals to select a card and fulfill a child’s holiday wish. Volunteers then distribute the gifts to families during the week before Christmas.

Impact on Local Families

In 2023, Project Santa Claus provided gifts to more than 223 families and 717 children, a testament to the community’s generosity. As noted by Alicia Main, Director of Project Santa Claus, during our recent Minden Rotary Club meeting, the program continues to rely on the goodwill and involvement of Carson Valley residents.

How to Get Involved

For more information on how to participate or contribute to Project Santa Claus, contact Alicia Main at 775-450-4969 (call or text), or email [email protected]. You can also visit cvprojectsantaclaus.org for additional details.

Through the power of community, Project Santa Claus continues to bring the spirit of the holidays to children and families in need across Carson Valley.

Minden Rotary meets 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursdays at the COD Casino Garage in downtown Minden.

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