 SHOPPING FROM THE HEART
For nearly two decades the Taylor Jaycees have sponsored a special shopping spree for the very youngest Texas Baptist Children’s Home residents. But it’s who the children buy for that has most endeared them in the hearts of the Jaycees.
“I don’t know a single Taylor Jaycee that will tell you this isn’t their favorite event of the year,” said Shawn Jonas, President of the organization.
Thirty members strong, the Taylor chapter of the Jaycees has been in operation since 1964, sponsoring two major fundraising events – including the annual National Rattlesnake Sacking Championship – to support outreach efforts like their annual TBCH Wal-Mart run.
But it’s not unusual for the Jaycees to dip into their own pockets to help the children.
“Sometimes we have to foot the bill for something,” said Shawn. “But it’s worth it because we believe in what we are doing. That’s just the kind of people we have in this organization.”
Maybe that’s why in his 17 years of being a member and attending the TBCH Wal-Mart shopping spree, he has developed a certain appreciation for children at the ministry.
“We give these kids money to go into Wal-Mart and buy whatever they want with it,” he said. “But a lot of times, they don’t spend the money on themselves. They spend it on family or friends. That places them high in my book. It shows they care more about others than they do themselves. Given what they have been through, that means a lot.”
The Jaycees historically have hosted the shopping trip for only the very youngest of the dozens of children who live in the Campus Life program, which usually means kids between the ages of 6 and 10. This year nine children participated.
On Monday, December 7, Taylor Jaycees and their families hosted the children and two TBCH house moms for a pizza and ice cream party that was capped off by a visit from Santa Claus. After the party they headed for the Taylor Wal-Mart, where each child received an envelope containing $25 to spend however they like.
They were accompanied by Taylor Jaycees members, who are paired up with the kids. The question really is who has more fun, the children or the adults with them?
“It’s fun, I tell you,” Shawn said. “It’s certainly my favorite event. When I’m recruiting a new member, this is one of the things I tell them about. It just melts your heart to know you are a part of something so meaningful to so many.”
TBCH Executive Director Keith Dyer never tires of outreach like that offered by the Taylor Jaycees.
“This is a very special outing for these kids,” he said. “The fact that this organization continues its dedication to our children year after year shows their love for not only our ministry, but the people in it. We’re blessed by their support.”
But Shawn would argue that it is they, the Taylor Jaycees members, who are blessed.
“On a personal level, it gives you a tremendous feeling to watch these kids shop for something they want,” he said. “I know they don’t get the chance to do that all the time. But, when I see a brother and sister buying for each other, that to me is exactly what the spirit of Christmas is all about.”
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