Join the Season of Giving

posted on Monday, November 25, 2024

As the holiday season approaches, it's a time to reflect on gratitude and think about how we can lend a helping hand to those around us - especially here in our community. During the busy hustle and bustle of the season, one thing remains constant: the steadfast, strong-willed human spirit that shines brightly within all of us at EPI and beyond.

This year, we’re excited to continue a cherished tradition with our annual EPI Giving Tree event, running now through December 20. This season, there are 338 needs for 99 individuals we support, each representing a meaningful opportunity to make someone’s holiday a little brighter.

The Story Behind the EPI Giving Tree
The Giving Tree tradition began over 15 years ago with a simple mission: to meet modest needs of the individuals served by EPI - needs that might otherwise go unmet. By fulfilling a need on the Giving Tree, you provide someone with a gift to open during the holiday season, bringing a touch of joy to those who may not otherwise receive one because they or their families do not have the means.

Be a Part of the Giving Tree Tradition
Helping out is simple and impactful. Here are a few ways to join in:

• Browse the Wish Lists: We have four Giving Tree wish lists, each filled with items that can make a real difference. You can review these lists, select the gifts you'd like to purchase, and complete your checkout. During checkout, be sure to select "Exceptional Persons, Inc." as the shipping address (it should appear as an option) to ensure the gift is delivered directly to us for distribution.
• Local Purchases: More interested in supporting local businesses? You can! If you’d like to purchase an item locally rather than through the wish lists, just fill out the form linked on our website to claim the item. This way, it will be removed from the wish lists and reserved for you to shop independently.
• Make a Cash Donation: Not sure what to get? You can also contribute by making a cash donation. Simply designate your donation for "Giving Tree," and we’ll handle the shopping to fulfill someone’s holiday wishes.

Regardless of how you'd like to help out, get started by clicking here. This will take you to our Giving Tree page with more information on those who will be receiving your generous gifts.

What Are Some of the Items Requested?
The Giving Tree wish lists include essentials and some simple comforts. Needs range from warm winter coats, socks, and shoes, to household basics like pots, pans, and cleaning supplies for individuals moving into their first apartments. Some have asked for books or movies to enjoy during quiet moments, while others look forward to receiving practical items that will help them throughout the year. Each gift fulfills a real need, bringing warmth and joy to someone’s holiday.

Special Thanks to Our Community Partners and Tree Hosts
A heartfelt thank you goes out to our community partners who are hosting Giving Trees at their offices:

• PDCM Group Benfits
• Veridian Fiscal Solutions
• Discerning Wealth
• Truck Center Companies
• International Paper
• Lee Wealth Management

Your support and generosity help us make the season brighter for so many.

We’re grateful for everyone who has helped sustain this tradition, and we’re excited to see the kindness and generosity of our extended EPI family once again. With each fulfilled need, we come together to make the season warmer, brighter, and full of hope.

Happy Holidays to all, and thank you for being part of this wonderful tradition!