The Resource Exchange
The Spirit of Inclusion BY JULIE WHITE, The Resource Exchange
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hink back to 2020, when everything is being canceled from concerts to school — but how do you cancel Santa? You don’t. That’s about how long it took The Resource Exchange (TRE) to decide to reimagine its annual indoor Breakfast with Santa scheduled that December to an outdoor Drive-Thru Santa event. Now entering its fourth year, the event benefits the Empty Stocking Fund. “It has grown every year, to now include many other Empty Stocking Fund agencies, first responders, and area team mascots,” says Colleen Batchelor, TRE’s CEO. Families are invited to bring their children to see local favorite Santa Joe in drive-thru fashion. Partner agency volunteers are cheerful elves distributing goodies, first responders light up their vehicles, and tiny tots with their eyes all aglow give Santa their wishes — some bring handwritten lists. The unique and fun holiday event is hosted by TRE, a local nonprofit that coordinates care and case
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management for the disability community. Open to all, the event is particularly targeted at families of children with disabilities. Families can bring their children to visit Santa without encountering large crowds, rushed lines, or increased sensory stimuli often found at holiday events. Santa Joe is a local favorite, with many families seeking him out either at TRE’s Drive-Thru Santa or for photo opportunities at his Old Colorado City home. TRE has worked with Santa Joe for over 20 years to spread joy and holiday cheer to children with disabilities. Santa Joe says it’s all about “keeping the magic alive” and less about the naughty or nice list — instead he encourages children to “do your best.” This year’s event is Saturday, December 16, at The Resource Exchange main office parking lot, on Corporate Drive in Colorado Springs. A $10 suggested donation per car benefits the Empty Stocking Fund and is greatly appreciated. More information can be found at www.emptystockingfundco.org or www.tre.org.