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It took a village of volunteers to support the Highland Lakes Service League annual Special Needs Christmas party held recently at Putters and Gutters in Marble Falls. Pictured are all the members, helpers, and staff who made this amazing event possible. Contributed photo
It is said that the Grinch had a heart that was “two sizes too small”, but the only hearts in evidence at the Highland Lakes Service League Special Needs Party were of the large variety. In what has become a vibrant and growing annual event, the Service League hosted almost 300 guests from the special needs communities in Burnet and Llano counties.
Buses and vans from all over the area brought guests of all sizes and ages to participate in a joyful holiday affair that began with a big Christmas hello from HLSL members dressed in red.
For the first time ever the event was held at Putters and Gutters in Marble Falls, which graciously agreed to close to the public for a few hours so that guests could have the event space to eat, play games, and make crafts to their heart’s content.
Everyone enjoyed bowling, face painting, and corn hole. KBEY’s own Ben Shields provided the dance music so that attendees could sway to the holiday beat in the skating rink venue.
And what Christmas party would be complete without a visit and a picture with the big guy himself, Santa. Accordingly, each guest had the opportunity to share a few wishes with Santa, snap a photo, and take home a very memorable holiday gift.
The members of the Service League feel blessed to be able to continue this special holiday tradition and extend grateful thanks to the sponsors that made the event possible, including:
• Putters and Gutters, for providing lunch, closing to the public, and for all the staff who worked tirelessly through all the unique details that were involved.
• Estes Audiology for their support of the Special Needs community and the HLSL throughout the year.
• Moxie I, LLC for underwriting the wonderful gifts.
Most importantly, thanks to the special needs community for showing us every year what a big heart overflowing with joy looks like.
The Service League’s ongoing support of community projects such as the Special Needs Christmas party is funded through their annual Chuck Wagon Chow Down Fundraiser.
This year’s event will be held on January 28, 2023, 5:30 p.m. at the YMCA in Burnet. The public is invited to be a part of this amazing service mission by purchasing tickets starting Dec. 2, at bidpal.net/cwcd23. Additional information is available at www.hlsl. org.