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PARKERSBURG -- The Arc of the Mid-Ohio Valley is looking for public support for its annual Secret Christmas program. The Arc supports people with intellectual, cognitive or related developmental disabilities. Participants in Secret Christmas are above the age for assistance from other community programs and have a financial need with little or no support from families to cover clothing, grooming, transportation and other social needs.
"Many participants live on fixed incomes and this is likely to be the only Christmas they receive," Alexis Ullmann, Program and Activities Coordinator of The Arc, said. "Without the Annual Secret Christmas program, many would go without a gift to open on Christmas morning."
"The Arc needs volunteers to help shop, donate, or wrap gifts in order to provide Christmas gifts and household items to adults and teens 13 years and older," said Doug Hess, Chief Operating Manager for The Arc. Past donations for have supported 250 people. Last year, individuals, clubs, businesses, organizations and churches contributed money, time and supplies to bring Christmas cheer to people. "We are so fortunate to live in a community that comes together and creates real Christmas magic for our relatives, neighbors, and friends" says Executive Director, Michelle Curtis. "With the help of The Marietta Community Foundation, we are expanding this year to serve participants from Washington County, Ohio."
The PM Company's Spirit of Giving, Vienna Baptist Church Children and Families Fund, and a grant from Rotary of Wood County are among the financial supports provided to help fund this project. A person can be sponsored with a $50 donation. The Arc will purchase and wrap the gifts with the assistance of volunteers at a "Wrap Party" located at South Parkersburg Baptist Church to be held in November. Donors can request a wish list, purchase the gifts and bring them to The Arc office, or encourage a club, church group, office or other organization to be a Secret Christmas sponsor.
"If you are looking for a way to make your holiday season a little more meaningful, join us to wrap, laugh, enjoy each other's company and share the spirit of Christmas," Ullmann said. To get involved, contact Alexis Ullmann at 304-422-3151 Ext. 114, email alexis.ullmann@thearcmov.org. Go to thearcmov.org to download a sponsorship form.
Photograph with person includes: Angie Harkness, board member of The Arc of the Mid Ohio Valley