As the holidays approach I’m noticing myself posting about so many fundraisers, seemingly all slammed together in December. It is because this time of year is tough for many. The list of wishes that came my way showed me that there is no such thing as too many ways to raise money for our community.

I try to plan events that have two meanings: One, to bring our community together for something fun, and 2) There must be a purpose to it. When I started the Hopkinton Community Partnership more than four years ago, my purpose was to make sure that everyone has an opportunity to smile and feel a part of Hopkinton. There are many days that I have to stop myself and remember that not everyone can play a sport, because with a sport comes equipment the parents have to purchase. Not everyone can attend a prom with ease and no worry, as many of us know what goes into prom planning. The list goes on that many of us (including myself) take for granted.

I have dedicated myself and HCP to ensuring that we are still here for the same families we’ve given to over the years. With your help in attending the HCP events (Trunk or Treat, buying our candles, the Elf Hunt, Holiday Lights, and more) we were able to raise enough to fulfill the wish list for many local families this year. I am humbled by the generosity in our community.

The photo above is one that touched my heart. One Senior in town had a wish for a “real 4-foot tree”. Special thanks to our friends at Weston Nurseries for donating the tree! HCP volunteers picked up the tree and delivered it to this wonderful woman. To see her face light up and her gratitude is something I will never forget, and yes, it was THAT much gratitude over a tree. I received this photo today and it is exactly how I want to end my week, knowing that this community of supporters helped us make this woman’s day brighter. Thank you all for your continuous support, Hopkinton.

Heather Smith is the Founder of Hopkinton Community Partnership