Memories, Traditions, and Wreaths of Joy
By Angie Matthiessen, Executive Director
The holiday season is more than gifts and the rush of the to-do list. Quite literally my whole self-shifts when the decorations come out. This time is for us to gather, reflect, and create memories with those we love. I am mindful of this because my daughter turns 18 just two days before Christmas. We are spending lots of time reflecting on holidays past.
Think back to the first time you saw a wreath as a child. The smell of fresh pine as you entered your grandparents’ home. Fancy bows and bells that your mother carefully placed. It is true, wreaths are magical, a timeless symbol.
Several years ago, Dawn Forlini on the UWCC team shared her memories of a ‘festival of trees’ event from her hometown in Washington state. I had experienced the incredible Festival of Trees event in Atlanta, now called the Georgia Festival of Trees: Holiday Cheer for a Cause. We both wanted to bring an event like that to Charlotte County but knew that trees may not be the answer – thus the Festival of Wreaths was born.
Wreaths took on an even greater meaning, as we came together this past Wednesday for the 3rd annual Festival of Wreaths (FOW) event hosted by UWCC at the Family Services Center. As we have found each year, the celebration does more than bring the community together—it transforms lives.
Through creativity and generosity, beautifully decorated wreaths crafted by local artisans, organizations, and families are raffled to raise funds for two extraordinary UWCC programs: Ageless Engagement and Kids Thrive.
With a variety of wreaths, some are traditional, lush evergreen, while others are more whimsical. This year we had some amazing wreaths that celebrated events throughout the year – my personal favorite was the St. Patrick’s Day wreath.
Guests, Everett and his wife enjoyed the evening, this being their first FOW. It gave them an opportunity to do something new and different in the community, support a great cause, and get into the festive spirit. They were in awe of the little elements provided between the food, music, wreaths, and even Santa’s arrival!
Santa made his grand entrance with his signature Ho-Ho-Ho and everyone was giddy with excitement. Adults were brought back to childhood memories laughing and taking pictures with Santa in front of the Christmas tree.
Let’s face it. Wreaths make people happy. The woman I met who made one last year, made one again and brought her friend along. The beauty of FOW – it is truly ‘ageless’. UWCC’s priority of increasing socialization and decreasing isolation in our community was living and breathing that night, just like the beautiful live wreath on display.
Two new UWCC volunteers were there setting up the food display. Our precious and jolly Santa may even serve as a VITA volunteer (that is technically a secret). Mobilizing our community to be out volunteering – it is good for the soul – and we are proud to serve in this capacity.
As you pass by a beautifully decorated wreath, let it remind you of the love, tradition, and generosity that make this time of year so special. If you were not able to make it and would like to donate, we are still accepting gift cards for the Kids Thrive families, which can be dropped off at the UWCC office: 17831 Murdock Circle, Suite A. Port Charlotte.
For more information on volunteer opportunities and to sign up, please visit unitedwayccfl.org/volunteer.
For more information about United Way of Charlotte County’s mission: Mobilizing the power of our community to break the cycle of poverty, please contact Angie Matthiessen, Executive Director. She can be reached at director@unitedwayccfl.org.