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Melmark Brims With Holiday Cheer

In December, the Melmark Campus sparkles with decorations reflecting the joy of the holiday season. A busy schedule of special events begins on December 2, when volunteers, parents and staff start the celebrations with a colorful Hanukkah party.

On December 6, the Melmark Service League visits to decorate the Center Hall of Melmark’s main house. They trim the ten-foot tree and “deck the halls” with greens, spectacular bows, liights and garlands.

Members of the Lions Club host a Christmas Party for Melmark residents on Sunday, December 9 in the newly remodeled multi-purpose center.

On Thursday, December 13, Santa’s Brigade arrives on the Melmark campus to deliver Santa’s sacks of gifts. Santa’s Brigade was founded i n 1996 by Louisa McDonald. It is a volunteer group whose purpose is to provide Christmas presents for local charitable organizations. Scores of local companies help provide hundreds of gifts to benefit selected regional charitable organizations. Melmark, one of Santa’s Brigade’s recipient organizations, welcomes Santa’s visit with cheers and songs.

On Sunday, December 16, the Melmark Players, a talented group of Melmark adults, perform for the Family Christmas Party. This year the popular and talented Melmark Players will present “Wicked”. Following the performance, a cast party is scheduled at The Meadows, Melmark’s innovative, work-centered program for adults with mild-to-moderate disabilities.

As the holiday excitement grows, on Friday, December 21, the Children’s Theatre performs “Pinocchio” in the Multi-purpose center. The Melmark Annual Art show opens on December 21 with a display of the artwork created by Melmark Children and adults.

On December 25, Santa Claus visits each house to present gifts to the Melmark residents who spend the holidays on campus. Children and adults welcome Santa with cheers and joy before they prepare to enjoy a special Christmas luncheon that awaits them in the festively decorated gym.