WHENEVER I FEEL DISCOURAGED by disparaging attitudes in my community, I need only shift my focus to change my mindset. So many people in Faribault are doing really good things to help each other in a time when individuals and families are struggling. Never is that more evident than during the holiday season.
One example of community generosity is currently displayed at Central Park, where 47 decorated Christmas trees line the sidewalk along Second Avenue. These are more than simply trees adding a festive flair to Faribault. These are trees purchased and decorated by non-profits, businesses, service organizations and more through the city Parks and Recreation Department’s Adopt a Tree Program.
The city works with local non-profit St. Vincent de Paul, just across the street from the park, to give the trees to families in need. This Thursday, December 8, the trees come down for distribution to those selected to receive this bit of holiday cheer.
As I view it, these donated trees stretch beyond decorating homes that would otherwise be without Christmas trees. These trees are about giving hope. These trees are about showing care, compassion and love. Both donors and recipients likely experience those feelings. A sense of community connection flourishes.
In these assuredly tough economic and divisive times, we need, more than ever, to be there for one another. To see the humanity in each other, to respect one another, to support and care for one another. To connect as a community.
Only several years into Adopt a Tree, the program is growing with 15 more trees than in 2021. Such generosity of spirit touches me, shows me that the Faribault community cares. For that I feel grateful.
© Copyright 2022 Audrey Kletscher Helbling
Minnesota Prairie Roots 
Wonderful idea and a lovely display. ❤
It certainly is, especially the concept of helping others.
We’ll be in Faribault today and hope to go look at the trees. What a great idea.
Oh, good. You’ll also find a snow sculpture at Central Park. I’ll post about that soon.
What a truly wonderful project and it is growing every year. I love this idea and hope it continues to grow in years to come.
I hope the same.
❤️
Of all the town festivities, this involving many, benefiting many with adding beauty and tradition to homes, is really nice. Participation seems growing, providing many homes with decor for future years too. Landmark Center in St. Paul used to have a similar program, wonder what happened to that. BTW, why is this year the last performance for The Merlin Players? Losing leadership?
Programs come and go, re your reference to the one in St. Paul.
As far as The Merlin Players, yes, Juliana is stepping back, easing up. She is, like all of us, aging. Heading up a theater company takes a great deal of time and energy.
This is such a great thing to do for those that are unable to afford trees, and decorations! Maybe other cities will adopt this idea in the future. Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Thank you, Norma. It’s good to hear from you. Merry Christmas to you also!
[…] The Christmas trees are decorated by local businesses, then donated to families who might not be able to afford a Christmas tree and decorations this year. For more about this event visit MN Prairie Roots…click here. […]
Thank you for the shout out, Valerie. Readers, please visit Valerie’s blog for her festive photos and engaging writing.