As the holiday season draws near, a dedicated team of student volunteers is working to make the festivities even more special for families living in Charlottesville. Holiday Sharing, a volunteer program at Madison House, ensures that everyone gets to enjoy a bit of holiday cheer.

“I personally love the holidays, and I love picking out gifts for families and seeing the joy on their faces,” UVA third-year student Riley Sweet says. “So this is a really cool way to be part of that.”

As a program director, Riley organizes volunteer shifts once a week to prepare for the final day of distributing gifts. Throughout the fall semester, volunteers raise money, recruit sponsors and donors, and shop for presents based on the wishlist each family fills out.

“Gifts can range from anything as big as a bike or as small as a little toy,” Riley explains. “Walking down the aisle and getting to pick it out is like unlocking a sense of your own childlike wonder. It's fun because you're doing it on behalf of other people, and so it brings a new kind of joy.”

On distribution day, families come to Madison House to pick up their gifts and celebrate the joys of the holiday season. Festive decorations are strung up on the walls, and plenty of food is provided throughout the day.

“We’re all listening to holiday music, and it’s just a really good time,” Riley smiles. “It’s special to see their reactions in person. It feels good to know that we're making a real impact and that all of our efforts come to fruition.”

Riley communicates with the families, many of whom are Spanish-speaking, to make sure everyone’s expectations are met. Her favorite part of Holiday Sharing is the sense of togetherness, marking an unforgettable part of her college experience.

“You're forging relationships with the greater community and building relationships you wouldn’t otherwise build,” Riley reflects. “I’m from out of state, so [Holiday Sharing] definitely helps me feel more grounded in the Charlottesville community.”

By Aarthika Krishnan

Want to help spread holiday cheer? Donate to Holiday Sharing today.

Read more about Holiday Sharing in UVA Today.