Annual Gift-Wrapping Fundraiser to Benefit ODC
Ok, I’ve gathered all the gifts together. I’ve collected the tape, scissors, the annoyingly glittery wrapping paper. Then it’s time to start the actual wrapping process. Oh wait, I have to move the cat off the glitter paper. And then dehair the paper and deglitter the cat. Here we go again. I am halfway done with one package but inevitably I have estimated my paper amount incorrectly…
I don’t know if your present wrapping process goes quite like mine. But, I for one, am very happy that a local group has decided to solve all my wrapping woes.
This year the Marshfield Young Professionals are again hosting their MYP Gift Wrapping Fundraiser: A Cause Worth Wrapping About December 10 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“Whether someone is too busy or has too many gifts to wrap on their own, MYP can help! Bring your unwrapped presents and let our members take care of rest,” said MYP President Jessica Mannigel.
And not only does this event solve a possible holiday problem of wrapping, the proceeds also go to a good cause.
“The gift wrapping is free, however, donations are welcome. All proceeds will go to benefit Opportunity Development Center (ODC). Each year our members vote on which organization the donations will go to benefit,” Mannigel said.
This will be the fifth year of the event for the organization, although it has switched locations a couple times. However, they think the MACCI location is the perfect fit.
“In 2014, we made the switch to MACCI (the current location), which provides a great space to work, but also ties in nicely with other events taking place like Reindeer Day and the Hot Chocolate 5K Run/Walk,” she said.
Mannigel is glad they have been able to make this event a success for the community and the organization.
“In 2012, members were looking for a unique way to give back to the Marshfield community during the holidays. A few of members, who were avid gift wrappers, suggested going to the Marshfield Mall to volunteer at the gift wrapping station. Our first year was not very successful and unfortunately, we did not raise very much for charity, but our members were dedicated to making it work,” she said.
It is very easy to participate.
“People can bring any amount, type, or size of gift. However, to help the process, please organize gifts per person and put into separate bags or containers. If you don’t have this done ahead of time, we can help you upon arrival,” Mannigel said.
Mannigel herself is looking forward to participating as a wrapper.
“This is a really fun event to be part of and sometimes requires a little ingenuity. Last year, I had to wrap a snowboard, but didn’t have a box that was the right size. Myself and another member crafted the perfect box out of two other boxes and spare cardboard,” she said.
It isn’t all about the work the day of the event. It also requires some preparation for the group.
“We have a small committee made up of MYP members that help organize this event. They organize the gift wrapping materials, volunteers, and promotion, as well as the day-of details. They start planning a few months out, “ she said.
Mannigel said the event is worth the work. It provides a service to the community, helps a good cause and helps the group meet their mission.
“Our mission is to engage and empower young professionals through community, professional, and social opportunities; creating and promoting an environment to attract and retain talent. MYP offers a mix of social, professional, and volunteer opportunities for our members,” she said.
For more information about MYP or this event, click here or visit their Facebook page.
What: Marshfield Young Professionals Gift Wrapping Fundraiser: Wrapping for a Cause
When: Saturday, December 10 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: MACCI, 700 S. Central Ave.
Cost: Free, but donations are welcome