The 35-foot tree looks like it came from the movies. Sparkling from top to bottom, its presence is awe-inspiring. Everyone in the room has their eyes on its greatness.
For 27 years, the Association of Washington Business (AWB) has hosted the Capitol Campus Tree Lighting Ceremony, brightening the evening for hundreds, and brightening the holidays for all—especially those in need.
The Holiday Kids’ Tree Project raises money to donate for rural fire departments to distribute to needy families during the holiday season. All monies donated to the project go to the fire departments for purchase of toys; AWB takes care of any other needs such as program, food, and music.
Each year the tree is themed, such as last year’s hero theme. This year, the motif is “Under the Sea.” Stuffed sea creatures, toys, and underwater decorations are part of the festivity. More than 5,000 LED lights and ornaments will fill the tree.
“The most important part of this event is the ability to help needy families during the Christmas season with gifts and food—the lighting ceremony is a culmination of this project,” explains Bonnie Millikan, Executive Assistant to the President and AWB Office Manager. “We often raise over $20,000 to distribute to the fire departments.”
Eighteen rural fire departments from Grays Harbor, Lewis, Mason, Thurston, Grant, Walla Walla and Spokane counties will be the beneficiaries. It has become a tradition for the firefighters and families to attend. The firefighters then have the joy of shopping and delivering the presents for the families they have identified in their area who are in need. Contributions and toys collected go directly to the families. The project has raised over $370,000 since 1989, along with donated toys and books.
Governor Jay Inslee will be present to introduce a special family to be the designated tree-lighters. Each year a branch of the military is chosen to do the honor; this year’s event will be a Navy family.
Service members are an important part of the celebration, which also includes live music from Kids in Koncert who choose one song to go along with the theme. This year they will sing The Little Mermaid classic, “Under the Sea.”
Another special guest at the event is Santa. Kids can visit with Santa, Mrs. Claus and elves while enjoying the beauty of the tree and the atmosphere of giving and community. When the tree comes down, the themed stuffed characters are given to Seattle Children’s Hospital along with a book that goes with the character.
“The hospital loves this!” shares Millikan. “We are celebrating children and we desire to help those in need during the holiday season.”
More than 400 people are expected to attend the event which takes place December 2, from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. in the Legislative Building Rotunda on Capitol Campus. The tree will stay on display through December.
For more information or to donate, visit the AWB website here.
