Proceeds collected at the event will be donated to Griffith Emergency Services (GES). In 2008, GES collected and distributed over $10,000 to residents impacted by the tornado and/or flood. In 2013, GES distributed 75-80 food/toy baskets to the less fortunate in our town to help them have a happy holiday. GES is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization run by volunteers.
This year, Imagine Griffith is collaborating with the YMCA, the Rotary Club, the Chamber of Commerce, the South Shore Dance Alliance, and several local businesses to make this our biggest and best event of the year.
From 1-4 p.m. on the grounds of the Franklin Center, there will be Christmas carols performed by the Griffith High School choir and band, Reeds Temple and St. Marys. Many businesses have purchased trees to decorate and display on the grounds. There will be a Tree and Nativity Scene Walk. The Rotary Club will sponsor a Wreath Raffle. Griffith Boy Scouts will serve hot chocolate and Imagine Griffith will serve cookies and granola bars. Santa will be available to visit with children and adults from 2-4 p.m. Children can help decorate the Imagine Griffith tree. The Chamber of Commerce will collect new unwrapped toys in the lobby of the YMCA from 1-4 p.m.
Culminating the event, South Shore Dance Alliance will perform a one-hour rendition of the Nutcracker starting at 4:30 p.m. inside the Franklin Center. The price of admission will be either 1) a new unwrapped toy ($10 minimum), or 2) non-perishable food items ($5 minimum), or a cash donation ($5 minimum).
Grindhouse Caf and Ladys Gourmet Popcorn have graciously agreed to sell popcorn and drinks at the Nutcracker and donate all of the proceeds to GES.
After the Nutcracker, the opportunity to give continues. Several local restaurants are also going to participate. Flyers will be distributed to everyone who attends the event. Everyone who patronizes one of the restaurants will have ten percent of their bill donated by the restaurant to GES.