PALM COAST, Fla. – In a world where many heroes wear badges and protective gear, it’s easy to forget that heroes come in all shapes, sizes, and jobs. Invited to become heroes to 100 Flagler County kids, teachers, lawyers, paralegals, secretaries, real estate and public service staff, executive directors, emergency management staff, you name it, they were there, and all had the chance to help make Christmas wishes come true.
The 17th annual Christmas with Community Heroes has morphed to involve the public sector over the years, and it’s chance for them to see behind the scenes, what the special evening is all about.
Taking over the toy section of Wal-Mart, and branching out for family gifts too ahead of the holidays, kids of all ages shopped with one of the heroes, for themselves and family members as part of the program.
Created by retired law enforcement officer Larry Jones, he never lost the inspiration to host the event after retirement. Jones is part of a tight-knit team that greets the families each year before sending them off on the shopping spree.
“It brings tears to my eyes every year to see something like this happen, and to be a part of it,” said Jones.
Among the heroes, Teresa Rizzo, executive director of the Flagler County Education Foundation, sees the positive results of supporting teachers on a daily basis. She was touched to be able to shop with Madelyn, a Matanzas High student who served as an ambassador for the school.
“We’re hero shopping with great kids,” she said with exuberance. “It’s so important. I’ve known Madelyn for quite some time so it was good to get her tonight as a surprise. She has brothers and sisters here as well.”
“One of the comments that she wanted good Christmas pajamas for Christmas morning. To have that special moment, especially since my kids are grown now, and could care less about their Christmas pajamas, this mama still loves that moment and being able to that for her. It just means so much,” she said.
Flagler County Deputy Administrator Percy Sayles was on his third run as a hero, and enjoying every minute.
“I love it. I had two kids last year and I probably love it more than they did,” he shared. “I look forward to it.”
Ensuring the kids in the community know they are loved is important to each of the heroes that shops.
“I used to be one of these kids,” said Sayles. “I didn’t have much, so I understand how it feels not to have and want. If I can do anything to make it better for them, especially at Christmas, I will do that.”
Helping organize the event, Christmas with Community Heroes board member Lacy Martin loves seeing the excitement on the faces of the families as they head out with their wrapped packages each year.
“I am so honored to be able to participate in Christmas with Community Heroes,” said Martin. “This is my 5th year being involved with planning and fundraising. I truly enjoy watching these children light up and have so much fun shopping for whatever their heart desires. The magic is incredible and I’m so moved by these kids.”
