Sandpoint Article

The Festival of Trees

Helping Kinderhaven provide for children in need.

By Melody Knaggs-Vanhorn.

BEING A CHILD shouldn’t have to hurt, and at Kinderhaven this statement couldn’t be more true as they take in numerous abused and neglected children that are suffering throughout Northern Idaho. Known as the only emergency foster shelter in our area, Kinderhaven strives to give every child a place of love while offering a home that provides the security to help them grow. A non-profit organization, Kinderhaven relies largely on donations from the community to help provide for everyone in their care. One of their biggest donations comes from “The Festival of Trees,” an annual fundraiser where numerous businesses and organizations throughout the community donate an elaborately decorated tree to be auctioned off during the last night of the event.

Kinderhaven will be hosting “The Festival of Trees” at the Sandpoint Events Center December 4th through the 6th. This three day event will start with a free Family Night taking place from 4-6pm on the evening of the 4th. During this time, families will have the opportunity to visit with Santa while they view the stunning array of trees before they are auctioned off.

The following day, a Holiday Luncheon will take place at 11am and is dedicated in honor of Kinderhaven founder and our late mayor, Marsha Ogilvie. At the beginning of the luncheon guests will be directed to the 3rd floor auditorium for a silent auction before going down to the main area for a delicious lunch amongst the trees.

The main event of the weekend is The Progressive Gala which will kick off at 5:30pm on the evening of the 6th. The Gala gives attendees a chance to bid on one of this year’s fabulous trees while they enjoy a silent auction and a delicious dinner provided by Ivano’s. Tickets for the 5th and 6th are available by contacting Jacinda Bokowy at 208.610.2208 or by emailing her at emailjbokowy@mac.com. All proceeds from this event go directly to Kinderhaven so that they may continue to help enrich the lives of the children who walk through their doors.

If you are interested in volunteering your time to help with the Festival of Trees please email Kathyrchambers@gmail.com.