Members of the Noon Exchange Club of Garland were busy the week before Thanksgiving as they began preparing for their annual Children’s Christmas Party. The event has grown over the years from 80-100 youngsters to about 375 Garland ISD students.
The club buys, wraps and gives presents to the youngsters at a party on the first Wednesday in December. Noon Exchange Club members and school counselors spend the week before Thanksgiving shopping for items on the students’ wish lists. The gifts were stored until Tuesday, Dec. 5 when, with the assistance of some community-minded high school students, the presents were wrapped and placed in large bags to await distribution.
The real fun started Wednesday, Dec. 6. The kids who were to receive the gifts were bussed to the Curtis Culwell Center for singing, skits and cookies before the main attraction arrived.
Complete pandemonium ensued when Santa Claus got there with the bags of gifts for the students. The kids shouted with happiness over the clothes and toys they received. Members of the Noon Exchange Club, as well as the other helpers, enjoyed the event as much as the kids.
About: The Noon Exchange Club of Garland is a non-profit all volunteer organization. The organization meets every Wednesday at noon at Ernesto’s Mexican Restaurant, 1518 Northwest Highway. There are interesting and knowledgeable speakers every week. There is also recognition of outstanding students and civic workers. Find more information at noonexchangeclubofgarland.org.
The organization supports the following causes:
CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION
Noon Exchange Club provides a variety of public awareness materials and community service projects designed to help inform and increase awareness of child abuse and how it can be prevented.
AMERICANISM
Noon Exchange Club promotes pride in our country, appreciation for the freedoms granted to American citizens and gratitude to the men and women who serve and have served in the armed forces.
YOUTH PROGRAMS
Noon Exchange Club supports local youth through scholarships, mentoring, sponsorships and guidance. Exchange is making a difference in our future generation,
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Noon Exchange Club members give countless hours to help the community. Exchange assists numerous organizations and individuals through programs of service.