  
2009 Festival of Trees "Gifts of the Season" raises more than $550,000
On behalf of the Providence General Foundation and Festival Chairs, Carol and Gordon Bjorg, thank you to all who made the 24th Annual Festival of Trees a resounding success.
The week began at the Everett Event Center with a group of over 20 designers, elaborately decorating 26 beautiful trees, wreaths or holiday tablescapes. From nutcracker themes to trees with twirling sculptures, the beautiful creations were some of the most elegant and traditional ever displayed. More than 300 guests enjoyed the Opening Night event, featuring 180 silent auction items, jazz entertainment and dancing among the festive trees. The free Community Open House on Wednesday drove nearly 3,000 people into the grand ballroom at the Event Center to view the trees, enjoy entertainment by local community groups, and get a photo with Santa… but only after children enjoyed making some holiday crafts. The sold-out, black-tie Gala event attracted more than 500 guests adorned in their holiday best. Thirty-four items were auctioned off live bringing in more than $130,000 in proceeds to benefit the Providence Children’s Center. A special Fund-a-Need presentation featuring three families from the Children Center brought in an additional $124,000 to help families of the Children Center who cannot afford care. The final and one of the most popular events of the week—Teddy Bear Breakfast—packed the sold-out house with nearly 600 guests. Children and the young-at-heart enjoyed a hearty breakfast, photos with Santa, whimsical entertainment, and ice skating for all. Big thanks to Mortenson Construction, the event’s title sponsor, and all other valuable sponsors, committee members, decorators, volunteers, and event supporters for making this year’s Festival of Trees successful. To view/purchase photos from the Gala & Live Auction click here. To view/purchase photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus from the Community Open House click here. To view/purchase photoswith Santa & Mrs. Claus from the Teddy Bear Breakfast click here. Did you attend Festival of Trees this year? We'd love to get your feedback. Click here to take our survey.
The Children’s Center is one of the largest neuromuscular diagnostic and treatment centers in the state. With a reputation as a quality comprehensive care center, the Children’s Center staff focus on meeting the health needs of children born with medical conditions that affect growth and development, or those who face challenges stemming from illness or injury. With this reputation comes a dedication to assist families as they help their child with special needs grow and develop to their highest and healthiest potential.
Providence Children’s Center maintains a commitment to work with children diagnosed with autism, cerebral palsy, Down’s syndrome, brain injuries, and other developmental disabilities to ensure these youngest members of our community receive specialized care and support—regardless of their ability to pay for treatment. | 
