The Los Alamitos Youth Center’s Christmas tree lot is set to open at the end of November. The lot is one of the center’s biggest fundraisers, but has also become a chance to youths to learn some valuable lessons, while helping the center that helps them.
The Los Alamitos Youth Center’s Christmas tree lot is set to open at the end of November. The lot is one of the center’s biggest fundraisers, but has also become a chance to youths to learn some valuable lessons, while helping the center that helps them.
More than 300 students volunteer at this fundraiser each and every year. Volunteers learn valuable skills such as working as a team, following manager direction, customer service, and how it feels to provide service for a good cause. For many of them, this experience offers so much more than just an opportunity to give back.
Michael Cleary, 17, is a tree lot volunteer who has gone to the Youth Center since he was 5. Michael’s mother is a single parent and the Youth Center has been a strong support for him throughout his childhood.
When asked why he volunteers at the tree lot, Michael said “helping families find the perfect tree really puts me in the Christmas spirit.” Michael further explained, “I really like working with other tree lot volunteers and the staff members too. I learned so much about taking care of Christmas trees, customer service, and teamwork. Giving back to the charity that helped me when I was growing up means a lot to me.”
The Youth Center truly becomes a second home for many children. Michael is only one example of the many children who rely on the Youth Center’s support growing up.
“It is rewarding for me to see our past participants help us during different fundraising events,” said Youth Center Executive Director, Lina Lumme. “It truly shows that we have a special place in their hearts.”
The Youth Center’s annual tree lot will be open from Nov. 30 to Dec. 21 at the Ganahl Lumber parking lot at 10742 Los Alamitos Blvd. It is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends, and from noon to 9 p.m. during the week.
The Youth Center welcomes all to join the nonprofit by volunteering their time, serving on the board, or registering for a program. For more information, please contact the Youth Center Community Relations Director, Lisa Lee at 562-493-4043 or visit online at www.theyouthcenter.org.
