The Fifth Annual Merry Charity Holiday Social
to benefit Eight Local Charities
In 2007, Maggie Jo Hilliard, Esq. began Merry Charity, a free-admission/no-ticket event where guests brought gifts for the Guardian Ad Litem Program of the 4th Judicial Circuit for chances to win prizes for their generosity. At the first event, about 50 people brought gifts for 8 needy children who were destined to spend the holidays away from their parents. Since 2007, the event has grown to benefit 8 charities, and now involves more than 500 community attendees who battle for great prizes by competing to bring the most donations.
Each year, the event proves to be increasingly fun, exciting and beneficial for participating charities.
Guests are greeted at the event by Volunteers from Team Black to count their donations. For each increment of $25 in donations, the donor receives "raffle tickets" to be entered into the giant raffle wheel where the drawing occurs at 7:30... and goes on and on and on. Thanks to many local businesses, great gifts have been given in recent years: $10K advertising budgets, flights, trips, cruises, gift certificates and more. Each year, the competition increases and the prizes get better!
What is the best part of a holiday party? Food, of course! Wonderful appetizers are provided by Casa Marina's fine chefs, and desserts are provided by First Coast Cakes, owned by the fabulous Raquel McAlee of First Coast No More Homeless Pets.
A cash bar is provided for guests also, so come on out and enjoy great food, company, cocktails... and CHARITY!
And, what is the best reason to celebrate the holiday season? Charitable Giving... that's what it's all about!
