The Thunder does holidays like nobody else. But when it comes to this holiday season, we don’t just pull out the stops on the decorations and the holly-jolly fun. We also fire up our community service.
Case in point: our tree in the lobby. Earlier this week our office reception area was transformed into a bastion of bright blue lights, snowy garlands and twinkling ornaments.
This year, however, our decorations also hold some hopes for a brighter Christmas for a few dozen Oklahoma City residents. Our big blue tree is also a Salvation Army Angel Tree, giving our staff an easy way to support this wonderful organization and the people they serve.
Being part of the Thunder Family means being part of this community – and that means giving back. All our fans and supporters are part of the Thunder Family, so if you are looking for ways to give back this holiday season, here are a few opportunities:
- Winter on Western Festivities – Thursday, Dec. 8, from 6 to 9 p.m.
We’re teaming up with some great partners, including Chesapeake Energy, to support this event. Bring a new or gently used coat, winter accessory or blanket to Classen Curve, the Chesapeake campus or Nichols Hills Plaza and help folks in the metro keep warm this winter. Donations benefit KFOR’s “Warmth 4 Winter,” the City Rescue Mission and the Salvation Army. You can also make a donation of $1 or more to the Regional Food Bank and take a stroll through the “Winter on Western Wonderland,” just southwest of N.W. 63rd and Western. - Salvation Army Holiday Campaign
Drop some change, ring a bell or simply be an angel and help the Salvation Army as they pass along assistance to thousands of Oklahoma families. CLICK HERE to see how much fun it can be to be a bell-ringer, just like Rumble. You can also help by making a donation at any of the red kettles located throughout the metro, or pick up a gift wish from the Angel Tree at Quail Springs Mall. For more info on volunteering, CLICK HERE. - Regional Food Bank of Central Oklahoma – Matching Campaign
Chesapeake Energy is matching any donation to the Regional Food Bank of Central Oklahoma between now and Jan. 31, 2012. That means for every dollar you donate, Chesapeake will double it. CLICK HERE for more info on the matching campaign, or CLICK HERE to see more opportunities to help the Food Bank. - City Rescue Mission
Thunder Staff, including Head Coach Scott Brooks, recently served a meal at the City Rescue Mission. It’s one of our favorite events of the year; volunteering there could become your favorite way to give back. CLICK HERE to find out how to help the City Rescue Mission during this holiday season. - Urban Mission
The Thunder also gave out 400 Thanksgiving dinners to clients at the Urban Mission on N.W. 36th and Portland. Every year, we see the overwhelming need for more help – both in volunteers and in donations – to serve their increasing number of clients. CLICK HERE to see how you can help this great organization.
Oklahoma has many, many more organizations doing their part to bring holiday joy to those who need a hand this season. We hope to see you spreading the holiday – and the Thunder – spirit in your community!
- Karina Henderson
