We made it! The holiday season is officially upon us.

I don’t know about you, but when the holidays are here, time seems to fly by.  There are family gatherings, work parties, and time spent celebrating with friends.  However, amidst all the craziness, one thing that Matt and I make sure to make time for is donating our time to at least one local charity.

During the holidays, it is so easy to focus on everything that is hectic, and making this a tradition has allowed us to slow time down and focus on what is important. If you need to take some time to remember all you have to be grateful for (and have some holiday fun too!) check out these charities that have events coming up in December!

 

AZ HUMANE SOCIETY’S SANTA PAWS: (December 10th)

If you are an animal lover like me, you need to check out this event! Located at Scottsdale Fashion Square, you can bring the whole family (including your furry friend) to get a picture with Santa. If you are thinking about taking home a holiday pet, there will also be animals available for adoption.  A new puppy could be a great addition under your tree!

Want additional details for the event? Click here!

 

PHOENIX CHILDREN’S IGNITE HOPE: (December 10th)

This year will be the 5th annual Phoenix Children’s Ignite Hope walk.  Last year, this was the event that Matt and I chose to attend and honestly, we couldn’t imagine not doing it this year.  Phoenix Children’s Hospital has a special place in my heart, and this event was an amazing way to celebrate your loved ones, recognize those kiddos that are battling tough diseases, and get into the holiday spirit.  Ignite Hope is a 1.1 mile walk in which each walker carries a candle.  Once the walkers arrive at the hospital, the kiddos in Phoenix Children’s Hospital all have their candles lit and it is a breathtaking experience.  There are Christmas Carols sung, stories of healthy recoveries, and at the end of the event the massive Christmas Tree outside of Phoenix Children’s is lit.

Thinking about joining us this year? Here’s more details. 

 

PANDA PROWL: (December 11th)

 

PANDA, which stands for People Acting Now Discover Answers, is hosting their first annual Panda Prowl! This event is a 5K walk/fun run on the Phoenix Canals in Arcadia.  PANDA is an amazing organization that supports the Steele Children’s Research Center, located in Tucson.  Steele focuses on cutting-edge research for childhood diseases.  It is an amazing organization, and many children have been able to survive and thrive because of the efforts of Steele.  This event is open to the entire family (including your pets!) and will have music, face-painting and treats at the end of the walk!

Want more information? Here’s the link! 

 

I hope that this gave you some inspiration for a few events worth checking out this holiday season.  Do you have any favorites that I missed?

 

XO, 

Arcadia Wife