This submission comes courtesy of Salesian College Prepatory. For more information, visit salesian.com.
By Ethan Leung, Student Journalist
The weather outside may be frightful, but the smiles were truly delightful at Project Santa!
The 35th Annual Project Santa, hosted by SLAM (Salesian Leadership and Ministry), brought holiday cheer to over 520 kindergarteners from local middle schools around Salesian. The dedication of the event moderator, Adrian Fulay, Salesian’s Student Leadership team, Salesian cooperators, and contributions from students and teachers, made this year’s Project Santa a resounding success.
Let’s take a look at some of the highlights of the event that turned the Boy’s and Girl’s Club into a Winter Wonderland:
Student Ambassadors
Led by Student Body President Jayden White, the Student Ambassadors played a pivotal role in guiding the young visitors throughout the corners of the building. From welcoming families to ensuring every individual child had a memorable experience, the ambassadors demonstrated festivity and leadership that define what it means to be Salesian.
Arts & Crafts
The arts and crafts stations were creative as children explored face painting, balloon animals, and hands-on art projects that awakened their inner artists. The best-performing booth was Cookie Decorating where kids and even adults were delighted to garnish homemade cookies in frosting and sprinkles. While constantly filled to the brim, this booth operated with the precision and energy of a fine dining establishment, thanks to the hardworking students and parent volunteers. With guidance from Nakai Moore, the children’s faces lit up as they proudly displayed their innovative masterpieces.
Games
From Snowman Bowling to Ornament Ball, Abhijeet Prasad and his team of coordinators provided continuous entertainment all day. The laughter and cheers could be heard throughout the building as children tried their luck at winning small prizes while building memories to last a lifetime.
Santa’s Cave
Led by Sophie Wong, children were able to meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus, as well as receive gifts that were so generously donated by the Salesian community. Cheers and shouts of joys were constantly heard all day, kids smiling ear to ear as they received their gift.
Music and Festive Tunes
The Salesian Choir heavily contributed to the holiday spirit with live performances of classic carols. With Ysabella Tessendorf on piano she “I really enjoyed accompanying the student singers!” said Bella. “There was such an exciting atmosphere, and even though I was a little nervous, it was fun.”
Prize Booth
Thanks to the generosity of the Salesian community, every child walked away with a special gift. From stuffed animals to puzzles and toys, the Prize Booth was a favorite stop for the Kindergarteners, ensuring that no one left empty-handed.
Mr. Adrian Fulay, the event’s moderator, expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the success of Project Santa. Although this eventful day has passed, the spirit of Project Santa carries on leaving an unforgettable mark on both the young visitors and the Salesian community. Events like these remind us of the power of kindness and the joy of giving during the holiday season.
Photo Credit: Gianna RiosEthan Leung is a student journalist for “The Red and Black,” the student-led newsletter at Salesian College Preparatory, Richmond, Calif.
