Joyful Giving: The Lawrence Festival of Trees Supporting O'Connell Children's Shelter
The Lawrence Festival of Trees is a festive event featuring over 100 holiday-themed artworks that will be auctioned off to support O'Connell Children's Shelter (OCS) in Douglas County, Kansas. Community members have come together to create Christmas trees, gingerbread houses, and wreaths, with all proceeds going towards OCS's important work in child welfare. The event serves as the shelter's primary fundraiser, raising over $250,000 in 2024.
Carolyn Johnson, a longtime supporter of OCS, has been decorating and donating trees for 25 years. This year, she chose a colorful theme to bring joy to the community, drawing inspiration from her experience with Douglas County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). Maren Ludwig, the director of development and communications for OCS, also contributed a Sporting Kansas City and Kansas City Current-themed tree, complete with signed memorabilia from both teams.
Another highlight of the festival is a tree inspired by Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's engagement photo, created by a group of moms including Molly Fritzel and JoMarie Bolick. The tree features flower ornaments with Swift's lyrics, bows resembling Swift's engagement dress, and an ornament shaped like Swift's engagement ring. The creators aimed to capture the joy of the engagement and share it with the community.
The Lawrence Festival of Trees will culminate in an auction party at Maceli's Banquet Hall & Catering in Lawrence on Saturday, Dec. 6. The event promises an evening of festive fun, with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. and the auction starting at 7 p.m. For those unable to attend in person, online bidding is available by contacting Maren Ludwig at [email protected]. Don't miss the opportunity to support OCS and bring some holiday cheer to the community through this wonderful event.