More than 500 Volunteers Helped Make the Season Bright for Metro Denver Families Saturday

DENVER – More than 1,200 children will have new gifts this holiday season, following Mile High United Way’s annual Children’s Holiday Party on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, at the organization’s headquarters in Curtis Park. Over 500 volunteers helped distribute toys, bikes, sports equipment and other items to about 500 families who participate in Mile High United Way programs, including 211 Help Center clients.

The need for support over the holidays is greater than ever. Many families are planning to spend significantly less this season, because of economic concerns. According to a Gallup poll, Americans estimate they will spend an average $778 on Christmas or other holiday gifts, well below last year’s estimate of $1,012.

When Mile High United Way opened up registration for families to attend the Children’s Holiday Party, timeslots filled up within 24 hours.

“None of this would be possible without the magic of our 500 volunteers and sponsors want to make sure all families have a magical experience. We want all children to have presents to open and know that their holiday wishes can come true,” said Christine Benero, Mile High United Way president and CEO.

On Saturday, children visited the “North Pole” for arts and crafts activities and visits from Santa Claus while parents and caregivers selected gifts to give over the holiday season. Volunteers helped shop, wrapped presents and assisted parents and caregivers in loading their cars. Each child also received a free pair of Crocs, thanks to Crocs’ support.

Volunteers included those from Give5 Mile High, a citywide volunteer initiative led by First Lady of Denver Courtney Johnston. This program empowers Denverites to come together and strengthen our community through collective service. Colorado Avalanche mascot Bernie and Denver Nuggets mascot Rocky also made appearances.

Children’s Holiday Party sponsors were Davis Graham, FirstBank, Verizon, EY, Amazon, Comcast, Greenberg Traurig, Select Health, SM Energy, Southwest Airlines, Suncor and Westerra Credit Union.

###

About Mile High United Way
Mile High United Way, the first United Way in the world, was founded in Denver in 1887. Working side by side with the community, Mile High United Way takes on critical human services issues facing our seven-county footprint including the Metro Denver, Boulder and Broomfield communities. Our united approach changes the odds for all children, families and individuals in our community, so that we all can succeed.

Learn more at www.unitedwaydenver.org. Follow us on social media: @UnitedWayDenver.