The Winter Wishes program has been coordinated by HSU’s alumni association, Forever Humboldt, since 2015. The gift drive was originally started by former HSU employee Bill Clem more than 25 years ago.
“Winter Wishes is such a special program because it allows kids to feel heard and seen during the holidays. They ask for specific gifts and sponsors go shopping for exactly what’s on their list,” explains Stephanie Lane, HSU’s Director of Alumni Relations. “It’s personalized and the sponsors enjoy knowing that they are supporting a specific child in our community.”
To collect gifts for local kids, Forever Humboldt organized 70 sponsors, including alumni, staff, faculty, students, athletic teams, student clubs, and local community members. This year, sponsors purchased approximately $10,000 in gifts for local children, which will be distributed in partnership with six local nonprofit organizations throughout this week.
“Winter Wishes is an opportunity for alumni and community members to work together to give back during the holidays, which helps strengthen our local regional relations,” says Lane. “It’s a wish come true for everyone!