Courtesy photo Kelly Jefferson, Chamber Board Member and President of OSF HealthCare St Francis Hospital & Medical Group, ringing the bell at one of the Salvation Army’s iconic red kettles.

ESCANABA — “For it is in giving that we receive.” – St. Francis of Assisi

While I can’t take credit for the quote, I can say, with confidence, that the spirit of giving is alive and well in our waterfront community.

It’s obvious that many people living here truly believe that life isn’t about what we get, but rather about what we give. Let me take this opportunity on Christmas Eve to point out some of the positive examples of ways so many thoughtful folks shared their time and talents during the Christmas season.

There was an abundant array of entertaining family activities that significantly enhanced our quality of life. Community members planned and organized successful Christmas tree lighting ceremonies, craft shows, and festivals in local schools and churches. The very talented members of Players de Noc, Bay de Noc Choral Society, and Remnants Barbershop Chorus received standing ovations from grateful guests who enjoyed their annual performances.

There were Christmas celebrations in community spaces like the Antique Steam and Gas Engine Village on the fairgrounds and the Light UP the Park event in Rapid River that created many social media posts of delightful visits and pictures with Santa Claus. The City of Gladstone welcomed Santa to their downtown the day after Thanksgiving and Ludington Street in downtown Escanaba was lined with kids of all ages enjoying the Christmas parade. Many business owners, who do so much for the community all year, made sure shoppers were greeted with smiles and refreshments as they experienced the hustle and bustle of the holiday spirit that permeated Delta County. We are grateful to our Chamber members who give of themselves not just because it may have some benefit to them, but because of the joy it brings to others.

This is also the time when yearlong planning culminates with many organizations offering help to our neighbors in need. There are endless examples of how businesses and non-profits work together to help others. Businesses opened their doors or set up space for the Salvation Army bell ringers, non-profit organizations held fundraising benefits, meals, and events to raise monetary contributions that are used to support families during Christmas and all year long. Collection boxes for the U.S. Marine’s Toys for Tots local campaign started to show up in October. Giving Trees were set up throughout Delta County, each decorated with gift request tags for those who need just a little bit of help. Noticeably, the requests were picked and filled almost as quickly as the trees were tagged. Donated hats and mittens were hung on other trees to keep little hands, heads and hearts warm this winter.

Earlier this month, rows and rows of tables were set up in the Ruth Butler Building for St. Vincent de Paul Society and Operation Christmas Smiles volunteers who were packing Christmas baskets. Each basket was delivered with caring, loving thoughts to those who may be facing challenges during the holidays.

Then, last weekend, there was the candy cane food drive sponsored by firefighters, family, and friends of Gladstone Public Safety and volunteer fire departments. What a perfect opportunity to teach children to share – teach children to care.

To everyone involved in organizing or participating in any of the holiday events that lift up our community, thank you for setting the example that giving is living. May you experience Christmas joy throughout the holidays and always.

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Vickie Micheau is executive director of the Delta County Chamber of Commerce.