Highlands is one of the most generous communities anywhere.
Just look at the number of amazing nonprofit organizations that are not only able to survive, but are able to thrive, in such a small town. We are all very fortunate to live where we do and to have so many phenomenal outlets for our collective philanthropy.
One such organization that is getting back in the saddle for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic is the Highlands Area Nonprofit Donation Sharing group. HANDS has long been a driver of community giving during the holiday season, and the group’s community Christmas dinner has been a gem of an event for more than two decades.
The renewed 2023 dinner, which will be held at Highlands Country Club on Christmas Day, sold out in less than eight hours.
A side-project of the two Rotary Clubs who call Highlands home, HANDS raises money that can be distributed for any number of causes each year. The proceeds from this year’s dinner will be split between the Gordon Center, Highlands Community Child Development Center, and The Literacy and Learning Center. The common thread between the organizations of course being early childhood education.
The need for increased daycare capacity, Pre-K classroom instruction, and afterschool educational opportunities has never been greater. And as Highlands continues to struggle with workforce development issues, the need for childcare is only going to become more glaring. HANDS using its holiday fundraising reach to support our areas three major providers of such services is a worthwhile endeavor.
If you aren’t lucky enough to have a Christmas dinner ticket, you can still donate to HANDS. Donations can be mailed to Highlands Area Nonprofit Donation Sharing, PO Box 2834, Highlands NC 28741.
Perhaps you have another nonprofit that is near and dear to your heart. That is perfectly fine too! Use the holiday season as a reminder that it is always better to give than to receive. When Highlands’ charitable organizations prosper, we all win.
Have a Merry Christmas!