Festival of Trees retires after 26 years

July 7, 2022 

Dear Festival of Trees Supporter, 

I am writing you today to thank you for your support of our Festival of Trees over the years. This event was possible because of YOU and the many volunteers, donors, sponsors, and attendees.  

As you know, the past few years were not “traditional” Festival years. We had weather issues and postponements in 2018 and 2019; a pandemic in 2020 so we moved it online, and in 2021 we were back in person but had to adjust activities due to space restrictions. All these things occurring over a 5-year period made us really evaluate the event and its purpose as a fundraiser.  

After much discussion and reflection, we have decided to no longer hold Festival of Trees. While this is a tough decision for us to make, we recognized this event needed to change after 26 years. We are so grateful for all the wonderful memories, creativity, lights, and laughter that filled our hearts.   

We are excited that our Lights on 5k (traditionally held the Thursday prior to Festival of Trees) is slated to continue and will celebrate its 10th year of raising funds to purchase Christmas Gifts for those we support! As the majority of people we support now live off campus in homes of their own, we want to make sure our mission continues to bolster the support we provide so they can live their best life.

We hope you understand and recognize this decision was not made lightly.  I invite you to reach out to me directly if you have questions or wish to share concerns.  We have several other opportunities to be involved with our organization, including “Navigating the Waters of Inclusion” Gala and Film Screening this October at the Surf Ballroom, Spiritual Life Events, General Store and Textile Recycling. We hope you will continue your support of One Vision by volunteering, sponsoring, or attending other activities we do throughout the year.  

Thank you for your years of support and generosity, 

Mark Dodd         
Chief Executive Officer