On Dec. 14 and 15, Zepf Center’s Health & Wellness Center transformed into a festive winter wonderland. After a three-year pause due to COVID-19 restrictions, the beautiful and historic facility once again served as the venue for the highly anticipated 14th Annual Holiday Shoppe.
During this two-day event, Zepf Center clients and their families were invited to “shop” for holiday gifts at no cost to them. In addition to gifts for the holiday season, clients also had the opportunity to choose home décor items, cleaning supplies, and winter clothes for their families.
The 2023 Holiday Shoppe will be the first time since 2019 that participating families will be able to browse items and pick each gift individually. Due to social distancing and COVID-19 requirements in years past, participants were welcomed with a drive-through model where they received pre-made baskets and gift cards.
“We are incredibly excited to offer the full Holiday Shoppe experience to our clients this year,” said Zepf Center CEO Deb Flores. “Giving back and supporting the communities where we live and work ensures a happier holiday season for everyone.”
To make this all possible, Zepf Center staff volunteered throughout the two days running the shop, wrapping gifts, and spreading holiday cheer. This year, Zepf Center Director of Youth Services Andrea Murdock and ICS Coordinator Angela Keever teamed up with the Youth Case Management department to make the annual event a continued success.
“It was amazing to see the joy [the Holiday Shoppe] brought to our clients,” said Murdock. “You could tell the shop fulfilled a need in their lives and it was amazing to be a part of it and see the impact in real-time.”
The magic of the Holiday Shoppe is made possible by the proceeds from Zepf Center's annual Christmas in July Golf Outing. As Zepf Center’s largest fundraiser, this special event garners the means to purchase toys, warm clothes, and household items for hundreds of families during the winter holiday season. The clients selected to participate in the Holiday Shoppe undergo a pre-approval process, including referrals from Zepf Center providers.
Accompanied by their case manager, participating clients were given the opportunity to browse an assortment of items. From toys to household items, clients had as much time as they wished to personally choose gifts for each member of their family. After making their final selections, clients were then welcomed to an adjoining room where Zepf Center staff wrapped each gift, making them Christmas morning ready.
As one participant reiterated, the shop’s layout created a more personalized and festive experience.
“Everyone here was very supportive and willing to help,” shared Lexee C., who was picking up gifts for her son. “This time of year is usually stressful, but the things I picked up today will really help us have a happy holiday.”
As preparations for the holidays continue, Zepf Center's annual Holiday Shoppe stands as a shining example of compassion, generosity, and community support. Zepf Center's commitment to excellence in care and improving the client experience shines brightly through events like this, embodying the true spirit of the season.
Thanks to our Christmas in July Golf Outing Sponsors who helped make the 2023 Holiday Shoppe a success! Special thanks to Title Event Sponsors Hylant & Philadelphia Insurance Companies and Front 9 Sponsor Huntington.
SAVE THE DATE! THE 2024 GOLF OUTING IS JULY 15!
For more information about Zepf Center’s mission and the impact your contribution can make, visit zepfcenter.org/landing/donate/