How The McKendree celebrates holidays and special occasions

January 23, 2025

Celebrating Traditions and Community at McKendree University

How The McKendree celebrates holidays and special occasions

Introduction

McKendree University has established a reputation for its vibrant and inclusive celebration of holidays and special occasions, engaging both the campus and its surrounding community. Through festive events like McKids Christmas and Amesgiving, as well as impactful outreach programs such as the Christmas Families Project and Angel Tree initiative, McKendree fosters a sense of togetherness and community spirit. This narrative explores how these celebrations are woven into the university’s fabric, showcasing the role of diversity and inclusivity in creating memorable and meaningful experiences for all.

A Festive Tradition: McKids Christmas Celebration

Join the Holiday Cheer at McKids Christmas Celebration!

Details of McKids Christmas Celebration

McKendree University embraced the holiday spirit with its third-annual McKids Christmas celebration, held on December 14, 2024, at the vibrant Ames Dining Hall. Hosted by the university president and his wife, the event aimed to spread joy and cheer among local families.

Events and Activities Involved

A delightful range of activities was featured at the celebration. Children had the opportunity to engage in festive crafts, enjoy delicious cookies, and have their photos taken with the beloved Bogey the Elf. Additionally, this year, children were invited to write letters to Santa, creating a personalized touch to their experience. For young attendees under the age of 10, goodie bags were handed out, ensuring that everyone left with a smile.

To further enhance the festive atmosphere, members of the McKendree University choir performed traditional carols, filling the hall with joyful sounds that resonated throughout the celebration.

University Community Engagement

The McKids Christmas celebration is a testament to the university’s commitment to community engagement. By creating a family-friendly event, McKendree not only serves its students but also extends its warmth to the surrounding community. This celebration adds to a rich tapestry of traditions at the university, which includes events like Amesgiving, where staff and students come together in gratitude and fellowship.

Amesgiving: Bringing Campus Together on Thanksgiving

Gather 'Round for Amesgiving: A Thankful Tradition!

History and significance of Amesgiving

Amesgiving has been a cherished tradition at McKendree University since its inception in 1995. Held the Thursday before Thanksgiving, this event takes place in Ames Dining Hall, named after the university's first president, E. R. Ames. As McKendree’s popular Thanksgiving feast, Amesgiving serves as an occasion for students, faculty, and staff to gather and enjoy a festive meal together, reinforcing a sense of family and community during the holiday season.

Community involvement in Amesgiving

The involvement of the McKendree community is integral to the success of Amesgiving. Around 500 attendees come together to share a meal that is prepared and served by the dedicated staff of Ames Dining Hall, including cooks and student workers. This gathering not only provides nourishment but also fosters relationships among peers, creating an inclusive atmosphere for those who may not have the opportunity to go home for the holidays.

Types of food and activities during the event

This year’s Amesgiving menu showcased a feast featuring 12 different dishes, which included traditional favorites such as turkey, ham, sweet potatoes, and mashed potatoes. Desserts like pumpkin and pecan pies added a sweet finish to the meal. Beyond the delicious food, Amesgiving cultivates a festive spirit that contributes to the well-being of the campus community.

What impact do cultural holiday celebrations have on participants and their communities?

Cultural holiday celebrations significantly impact participants and their communities by fostering a sense of belonging and connection to heritage, which positively influences mental well-being. These celebrations help strengthen community bonds, reduce isolation, and promote support systems that enhance mental health. Engaging in joyful activities associated with these holidays, such as Amesgiving, can also reduce stress and enhance happiness. Ultimately, these events serve as vital opportunities for promoting inclusivity and supporting the mental health of individuals and their communities.

McKendree UMC Preschool: Nurturing Young Minds Through Celebrations

Celebrate Learning: Engaging Traditions at McKendree UMC Preschool!

Overview of events at McKendree UMC Preschool

McKendree UMC Preschool hosts a variety of celebrations throughout the year, allowing children to engage in meaningful traditions. Major events include Christmas, Easter, and an End of Year Celebration, each crafted to foster a festive environment.

During the Christmas Celebration, the preschool puts on a class party and a music program, inviting parents to participate and contribute. Easter features an exciting egg hunt and class celebrations, while the End of Year event often culminates in either a party or a family picnic, marking the children's growth over the past year.

Structure and role of celebrations with preschoolers

These structured celebrations play a significant role in the preschool experience, contributing to social skills development and a sense of community. They facilitate interactions among children and parents, fostering relationships that can last beyond the preschool years.

Importance of diverse occasions in preschool education

Celebrating diverse holidays not only teaches children about different cultures but also promotes inclusivity. For instance, through events like Halloween or Valentine’s Day, children learn to appreciate various traditions, strengthening their understanding and empathy.

People celebrate diversity during the holidays by embracing and appreciating various cultural traditions, allowing for a richer experience for everyone involved. Organizing cultural show-and-tell events further enables children to share and learn about traditions related to their family customs, enhancing connections within the preschool community. These initiatives reflect the preschool’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity.

Community Outreach and Charity During the Holidays

Give Back This Holiday Season: Join Our Charity Initiatives!

Christmas Families Project

In 2020, McKendree University made a notable contribution to the local community through the Christmas Families Project. This initiative supported 48 families and 113 children, providing a meaningful way for the university community to give back during the holiday season. The effort was a collaboration with the ministerial alliance, showcasing McKendree's commitment to charitable work.

Angel Tree Initiative

Another generous outreach effort is the Angel Tree program, where students select ornaments from trees on campus that represent underprivileged children. Each angel signifies a child for whom students purchase holiday gifts, generally costing between $20-$25. Participants wrap the gifts and ensure they are returned before the deadline, creating a festive environment rich with community spirit.

Local Community Engagement Through Charity

McKendree University fosters active community engagement during the holidays through various charity initiatives. Events like Trick-or-Treat for Canned Goods, where students gather non-perishable food for the Lebanon Food Pantry instead of candy, encourage charitable involvement while maintaining a fun atmosphere. Additionally, Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week highlights the importance of addressing local issues through various events that promote awareness and action.

Moreover, during Martin Luther King Service Day, students participate in service projects to honor Dr. King's legacy, further embedding the value of community service into the university’s culture. These initiatives exemplify McKendree's dedication to supporting both local families in need and instilling a sense of responsibility among students.

Diversity and Inclusion in University Festivities

Celebrating Diversity: Traditions that Bring Us Together!

Diversity Celebrations at McKendree

McKendree University is committed to fostering an inclusive environment through its diverse range of celebrations. Events such as the McKids Christmas celebration provide an opportunity for children and families to come together, highlighting the significance of community during the holiday season. Likewise, major festivities in affiliated preschool programs include class parties and music performances that celebrate various cultural milestones.

Fostering a Sense of Community Through Diverse Traditions

The university not only emphasizes major holidays like Amesgiving, where students and staff gather to enjoy traditional Thanksgiving meals, but also incorporates events that promote participation among all campus demographics. The Angel Tree initiative encourages students to purchase gifts for underprivileged children, while Trick-or-Treat for Canned Goods supports local food pantries, reinforcing community bonds through service.

Integration of Diversity in University Events

McKendree's dedication to diversity is evident in its celebrations and community service projects. During events like Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, students engage in activities that raise awareness and contribute to local needs. These initiatives underscore the university's commitment to inclusion and support, enriching both student life and the broader community.

Conclusion

McKendree University's vibrant celebration of holidays and special occasions exemplifies its commitment to inclusivity, community, and diversity. By engaging the campus and surrounding community in meaningful events like McKids Christmas, Amesgiving, and the Christmas Families Project, McKendree fosters a sense of belonging and togetherness. These celebrations not only strengthen community bonds but also highlight the university's dedication to creating an inclusive, diverse, and supportive environment during festive times.