3 weeks before Christmas, I was informed there were over 25 kids who weren't going to have Christmas. Their parents had no money and not a single gift was going to be opened. As I stated earlier, I never enjoy the craziness of buying so much stuff but I love the idea of giving. Especially giving to those in need. I received the list and sprang into action. Owning Full Circle Counseling and working with over 65 families in need throughout New Jersey has its own set of sadness so I knew there wasn't much time. I decided to think like Santa and do the next best thing... EMAIL! I emailed my normal list of friends, colleagues, women's groups and in less than 4 hours, the most amazing thing happened. Emails were forwarded and forwarded and by midnight that night, 68 emails were in asking for the list. I couldn't sleep, I couldn't stop typing. Kristen Totaro, a friend and colleague, spread the word as if it was the NY Times Headline... Within 3 weeks, the car loads kept dropping off and my home was bursting at the seams... Kristen texted me, "Jordan, the Marines want to help". WHAT? Annemarie Acquaviva from town was one of the first to respond. She emailed a few days later and said, my sophomore boys from Don Bosco have started a facebook fan page and 60 people signed up. My heart was overwhelmed.
Bill Lockwood (from the Padded Wagon Moving Company), whom I met once at a wonderful networking lunch, donated a huge moving truck to pick up the gifts. 985 gifts were collected and distributed to children in three counties. Since we directly work with many of these families, it was so amazing to see the expression of children seeing wrapped gifts being delivered. Christmas Eve was the busiest and happiest day of my life. The
response from people wanting and willing to help was overwhelming. The gifts were amazing. The thoughtfulness beyond my wildest dreams. This was the greatest holiday season of my life.
I know times are hard and many people are struggling. I have never, ever seen such generosity. Such love. Such genuine concern for kids completely anonymous. This was the hardest 3 weeks and the most memorable and enjoyable 3 weeks. I am completely addicted to happiness. Won't you join me. I guarantee you will never be the same!!! Join the Happiness Project NJ!!!!
HAPPY New Year
I love you
Jordan
http://www.happinessproject.nj.com/
