For a number of years, the staff members of Admissions and Records would swap ornaments in celebration of the holidays with one another. Things began to change, however, after the events of Sept. 11, 2001 when they made patriotic lapel pins, which they sold and donated the proceeds to the American Red Cross.

By the time the holiday season rolled around, they decided to continue their spirit of giving. “We were tired of exchanging Christmas ornaments,” said staff member Jenny McMahon. “We felt so good about the Red Cross donations for 9-11 we decided to pick another charity.”

They decided on Five Acres, the Boys and Girls Aid Society facility in Altadena that shelters abused, neglected and at-risk children.

“We chose Five Acres,” said McMahon, “because we saw an article about them in the Los Angeles Times and it told how they stay in touch with their 18-year-olds once they leave the home, helping with advice about schooling and life in general, and the older kids are welcome back to help celebrate the holidays. We liked that.”

Receiving a positive response from last year, staff members were encouraged gather donations of unwrapped toys and money from GCC staff again this year. The bookstore staff donated two large boxes of toys. On Dec. 6, Leda Bloomfield, Joann Horan and Olga Tovar took went shopping for gifts.

“These toys will go directly to the kids,” said Shanda Stiles of Five Acres. “We are completely dependent on community support and generous donations ensure that the children will have a happy Christmas.”
The gifts were delivered Tuesday.