United Way of Central Texas will hold their 10th annual fundraiser, The Chrome and Carols Festival of Trees, virtually this year due to COVID-19.
When the planning phase started, the coronavirus pandemic caused a lot of uncertainty. Vice President of United Way Central Texas, Veshell Greene, says she did not know what to expect.
"This year, I was so nervous. Are people going to be able to support? And are we going to be able to support this event?" she said.
However, that fear was brushed off once the organization saw the community support one another during this time of need.
"Wilsonart Engineering said, "Here is our check. Whether you have Chrome and Carols or you don't, this is for United Way because we support how you support the community,"" said Greene.
It was an act of kindness that kicked off the planning for their annual fundraiser.
"That was such a boost in confidence, so I was able to ask other sponsors, and then we got new ones, so everybody is amazing," said Greene.
Like most things during the pandemic, the event will be virtual. Twelve decked out Christmas trees will be raffled, each one with a theme of its own and hundreds of dollars in gifts.
They will also have a silent auction consisting of two decked-out Christmas trees and fun-filled baskets.
"We have a fishing trip for four. H-E-B has a chef's package for six where you pick the location and time and the chef comes to you, and there are a bunch of other baskets," said Greene.
Greene says none of this would be possible without the outpouring of support from the community.
"That feeling of not wanting to stop helping others, that is it. That is the future to keep doing what we are doing and include more people, let more be involved," she said.
She hopes the gift of giving continues as everyone gets through the rest of 2020.
The Chrome and Carols Festival of Trees will be selecting raffle ticket trees on December 3, however, you can start buying and bidding on right now.
You must buy a $20 ticket to participate. After that, each raffle ticket is $1. You can also purchase tickets in larges bundles. Purchase tickets HERE.
There will also be a silent auction that will take place from the December 3 until December 6.
You can also donate by texting "UWCT" to 56651.
