This year, Winter Wishes is making an impact by supporting six local organizations and surpassing expectations with over 300 gifts collected. For the first time in the program’s history, more people signed up to give than there were children in need.
This heartwarming milestone didn’t stop anyone from participating. “No person was turned away from giving,” says Sara Novak, assistant director of Alumni Relations. “We’ve directed them toward donating extra items to ensure even more success.”
Started over 25 years ago by former Humboldt employee Bill Clem and now coordinated by Forever Humboldt, Winter Wishes provides children with personalized gifts based on their wish lists. This year, 82 children were matched, with 89 people giving and many more volunteering to help wrap presents.
For long-time participant Amy Lennox, who works in the Office of the Registrar, Winter Wishes is a family affair.
“I thought it was a cool thing to involve my kids in when they were younger,” she said. “We shop together and talk about the child we’re buying for. It’s a bonding experience and a way for them to see the value of giving back.”
Lennox’s favorite part of the program is creating a meaningful connection. “I hope the kids feel the magic of the holidays, whether they think the gifts are from Santa or their parents. And I hope the parents feel supported by the community,” she says.
In a similar spirit, the rowing teams at Cal Poly Humboldt also join in the effort. The men’s and women’s teams, along with Humboldt Athletics assistant coaches, are also participating in Winter Wishes and work together to shop for and wrap gifts.
“We hope the families feel a part of the community and that the gifts bring them joy on Christmas day,” says Associate Head Coach of Women’s Rowing and Director of the Men’s Rowing Program, Ashley Donnell.
Kealey Scott, a senior on the women’s rowing team, explained why the program is so meaningful to her. “I enjoy supporting Winter Wishes every year because it’s a fun way to give back to your community, and I think every child deserves the excitement of opening presents on Christmas morning,” she says.
The program’s legacy continues to grow, with the campus community coming together to make the holidays brighter for local families. Whether shopping or helping wrap gifts, participants are united by the spirit of generosity that defines Winter Wishes—and the joy it brings to everyone involved.
