Christmas of Change 2012
Join the effort to celebrate the season, downtown, & raise funds for local charities
What is A Christmas of Change?
A Christmas of Change (ACOC) is an annual event in downtown Bend designed to raise funds to support the work of local charities, to help the celebration in downtown for the month of December, and to foster a greater sense of community within our city. Created by The Tree of Humanity, and with support from the Downtown Bend Business Association (DBBA), this event seeks to bring attention to the idea that small and seemingly insignificant contributions of time and money can add up to make a big difference.
Who is The Tree of Humanity?
The Tree of Humanity (aka “The Tree”) is a nonprofit organization passionate about strengthening our community by supporting charities who share our commitment to enhance the health and well-being of individuals and families in need. They have organized volunteers to help the DBBA decorate downtown for the Christmas season since 2008. In 2010, The Tree connected with the DBBA to help decorate the big tree at Newport & Wall after the City of Bend could no longer afford to do the work. We have silently completed many other projects to help make downtown, and other parts of our community, a better place for everyone.
How are funds raised?
Downtown businesses will show their support with a one time donation to local charities this season. In acknowledgement of their support, they will receive a large lit coin to be displayed at their business. The DBBA will also be contributing to the charitable effort, and the general public will be encouraged to visit the ACOC website to make individual contributions as well.
How are funds used?
Funds raised this December will be distributed by The Tree to local charities during 2013 using an open application process. Charities will use these funds to complete special projects or launch new initiatives as they work to fulfill their missions within our community.
What will the lights look like this year?
- The Downtown Bend Christmas Tree Lighting on Friday, November 30th will include festivities at Newport & Wall, a short parade to Minnesota & Wall where Santa will flip the switch for the Minnesota Avenue lights, and the event will end at Franklin & Wall where Santa will visit with children.
- Lighting will be colorful, consistent, and better this year than it EVER has been in Downtown Bend!
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November 9, 2012
Dozens of businesses have become engaged and are participating. Coins are being made now and Christmas lighting infrastructure will start to be installed next week!