Festival of Trees 2023 at Valley Mall in Union Gap WA [GALLERY]

The Valley Mall in Union Gap held a Giving Tuesday fundraising event to help support local nonprofits and spread some Christmas cheer this year.

Participating charities that decorated Christmas trees for auction at this event included Rod’s House, Wellness House, Yakima Pride, Habitat for Humanity, and Team Yakima Volleyball Club.

There was even a Barbie Christmas Tree! (See the gallery of all of the lovely decorated Christmas trees below.)

WHAT IS GIVING TUESDAY?

Giving Tuesday encourages locals to support charities and nonprofits in their towns. Speaking from my many years of volunteer board experiences on various local Yakima Valley nonprofits, I know all too well how our local donations and sponsorships help keep charities alive and functioning.

These donations help pay for things like providing scholarships and grants, supplies, food, mental health and wellness services, and job and housing support to needy individuals and families in the Yakima Valley.

FESTIVAL OF TREES AT VALLEY MALL

Valley Mall management has graciously provided a place and the space for local nonprofits to raise funds by raffling off a Christmas tree decorated by the charity’s volunteers. The event was held in the Center Court from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Passersby could purchase a raffle ticket for $20, thus putting their name in the pile for winning the decorated tree for the holidays.

PARTICIPATING CHARITIES

Five local Yakima Valley charities collectively 10 total hours decorating these beautiful Christmas trees that were given away by raffle tickets. (See the gallery below.)

“We are a non-profit organization based in Yakima, Washington that is committed to supporting and empowering the LGBTQIA+ community. Our team of dedicated queer volunteers works tirelessly to create uplifting…