The True Holiday Spirit
By Councilman Todd Gloria
We are in the midst of the holiday season, a time when our neighbors are electrified with a joyful spirit and generosity and our communities come together to celebrate our chosen holidays and reflect upon the year that was. As I have written about in the North Park News and discussed at events and meetings for the past few months, the city of San Diego is wrapping up the year facing some heavy issues. The economic conditions facing the city and so many of us personally have devastated local charitable organizations. Tight finances can threaten to take the merry out of Christmas, but that needn’t be the case.
We look for places and people who provide us comfort and familiarity in uncertain times. It’s reassuring to know that, when holiday events and parades are being cancelled in other areas of San Diego because of funding shortages, the North Park Toyland Parade will take place as scheduled on Dec. 5.
I am proud to be this year’s parade grand marshal and thrilled that I was able to secure $5,000 in visitor industry funding to ensure this hallmark event again spreads joy and energy to the heart of North Park. Part of the taxes paid by visitors to San Diego is allocated to support local events and organizations, and the Toyland Parade is an exemplary recipient because of its history, reach and popularity. Supporting local efforts, whether they are festive or charitable in nature, is critical this holiday season.
Now I enjoy receiving good gifts from my family and close friends as much as anyone, but in the past few years, some have simply stated they are donating to local organizations for the holidays instead of purchasing gifts. With so many neighbors in need and so many groups cutting back on their services, the time has never been better to switch from an “I want” mindset to an “others need” mindset. Might I want some new J Crew socks? Sure. Do the clients of Auntie Helen’s need clean laundry more than I might want those socks? Absolutely.
In my current position, I unfortunately cannot afford to give as generously as I would like to the myriad amazing organizations that operate in Council District 3 and serve our neighbors. I have instead participated in as many events as possible, advocated on their behalf and helped connect groups with necessary resources. As an example, I partnered with my colleague, Councilmember Marti Emerald, in raising close to $70,000 for the Alpha Project this fall. The Alpha Project for the Homeless serves over 2,000 men, women and children each day, and 12,000 individuals annually. Services offered include affordable housing, residential substance abuse treatment, supportive housing for people with special needs, basic and emergency services for the homeless, transportation assistance, mental health counseling, employment training, preparation and placement, emergency shelter, HIV/AIDS, education, outreach and prevention and community services.
Many of us think that whatever we can give is so small that it wouldn’t make a difference. I have been impressed learning just how far a dollar to nonprofits can stretch. If you haven’t a penny to spare, give your time. I promise you the smiles you receive in return will be among your favorite gifts this season and will give you a good start to the new year.
Councilman Todd Gloria can be reached at the District 3 office at (619) 236-6633; Fax (619) 595-1481; e-mail: toddgloria@sandiego.gov.
