CHRISTMAS WISH PROGRAM
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Aloha, our family (from our hearts) appeciate all the great help that the Christmas wish program has done for our family when my husband and I could not. We have been getting help from the christmas wish program for the pass 2 yrs. Our children loved the Halloween party, oh they had so much fun making costums and the healthy stuff they gave not candy. We also got help for Christmas that help alot. If they couldn't help then we would not have had any presents. We are a family of 6. My husband has been disabled for 13 yrs. and our 4 yr. old was diagnosed with (ALL) T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Luekemia on July 4,2009. This was a really devestating to our family. Staying home to care for my family is my highest priority. We are not homeless but we are low income. I don't know what we would do if their was no Christmas Wish program! Everyone we talked to at the program has been very nice and help full, some of they have been were we are today. Thank You so much from our hearts! ALOHA and Happy Holiday's to all espically those that help familys in need! Bless your hearts and souls.
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The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
bringing happiness to my children.
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What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
meeting other familys and all the helpful workers, seeing my children smile and be happy also the activity the family got to do and pics with Santa.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
wounderful people that show so much care for others in need
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
Help many more family's that are in much need through out the years. Sharing is caring and thats what the Christmas Wish Program does for many familys that just can't do it sometimes.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About once a year
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2008
This wonderful program helps the most needy among us and I wish I could do more to support the homeless children it serves. My first experience was volunteering to help with the annual Christmas party, and I was so impressed with the uplifting event and simple joy of the children that I have sent a few bucks in continued support almost every month. I also donated some craft actvities to the summer camp program, and will continue to help this worthwhile organization whenever I can. Mother Theresa said that if you can't feed a hundred, feed one. This program feeds a hundred hungry children at least one good meal a year, and fills their little hearts with hope and true spirit of Christmas.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
the smiles on the kids faces, and the sincere appreciation of their parents.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
offer to help by getting more involved.
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
it really makes a difference in the lives of those less fortunate.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
caring, cheerful and generous.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
encourage homeless children to break the cycle of poverty and grow up to be self-sufficient.
Ways to make it better...
I had learned more about the organization before showing up as a volunteer.
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
the downturn in the local ecomony has created more homelessness and reduced donations to the program.
One thing I'd also say is that...
Megin Patrick is an inspiration and shining example of how one person can truly make a difference.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every month
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
My experience was wonderful. Amazing and crazy all at the same time. I was one of the volunteers who helped the first year of summer camp. Little did I know that Magin doesn't really live in the same reality the rest of us do. She doesn't understand the word can't or too hard. She only sees the goals she sets and the dreams that come to her. With that said, Magin we all love you, but you are really hard to keep up with. I was asked to share a story about my experience with your organization. I would like to share the bus ride on the way to camp. Yes out of a 6 week summer camp experience, the first day of bus stops was more than an eye opener. I got on the bus with Magin to pick up the children. Stop after stop across half the island was just the beginning of what I saw. Magin got off the bus at each stop and made sure all the children that were scheduled to be there were there. She walked them to their seats and gave them there snacks. Off to the next stop with a smile on her face. Well that is what I observed about her, but as a volunteer I saw a different aspect to the first day of summer camp. I noticed at each stop the children would get on the bus unprepared for this sleepover camp. I watched the children jump on the bus without extra clothing, no sleeping bags, and some without shoes. One stop was just amazing. Two little boys got on the bus, Magin asked, "Who are you"? The cousin stated said they could go to camp because their mom couldn't take care of them anyway for the summer. They boys didn't say a word. Magin got off the bus talked to the aunt and off we went with these two boys.The boys still not saying a word sat there, no shoes, not even shirts on their backs. They eat their snack and then spoke to each other in German. Yes, they never spoke English, and were here on a bus to camp with nothing. Magin didn't seemed phased, just smiled and talked with all the children about the fun they were going to have at camp. Finally after two hours we arrive at camp. Magin lined up all the children and took their names and clothing and shoe sizes. Then walked them up to the sleeping areas and told the children to choose their sleeping bags and pillows. Took them to the bathrooms told them to get their towels and personal hygeine boxes. Off she went, a few hours later she was back with outfits and shoes for all the children. Okay, I thought, this is crazy!!! CRAZY. As if that wasn't enough to send my head spinning, on Friday when the children went home for the weekend, Magin filled their arms with extra and left over food items. Amazing, this is only the first week, and she has done more for these children than any one can imagine. Monday morning once again we get on the bus, yet the children don't have their clothes, shoes, nothing....what is going on I thought to myself. Magin goes off to the store again, brought back all the supplies the keiki were missing like nothing at all. I asked her what was she thinking? She told me she never expected that, but obviously the children needed this. She asked some of the children what they did with the stuff she bought. They had different responses, such as: my sister needed my shoes, or I lost my toothbrush, or I don't know it was in my tent when I was there....stuff like that. So, she just smiled and gave them a hug and their new stuff. This is the most amazing thing I have ever witnessed. So, Magin keep up your good work, and never loose your heart. Without you, there is no Christmas Wish, and without you they have no hope.
Photos
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
a volunteer situation.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
have already given up. It takes a heart and the dedication of a warrior, and Magin seems to be the only one who fits that.
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
being able to help with all the activities at summer camp. To help shape the minds of our youth.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
amazing. I want to say that Magin doesn't think or even really live in the same reality as the rest of the world. Infact, I don't think she has the words cannot, or why in her vocabulary. She dreams about something and makes it a reality despite reality.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
well Magin would change the world as we know it. Her dreams would be put into play a lot faster and maybe actually realized by the homeless keiki before their time.
Ways to make it better...
we had more volunteers to help with the programs.
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
lack of volunteers. I am not sure where the money comes from, but I know Magin puts her own money into this program. Without her funds it would not be possible to run.
One thing I'd also say is that...
it was a joy and privilage to work with Magin. To help her find her dreams. I am honored to be a part of a wonderful organziation.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
One time
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2007
I have been a long time supporter of Christmas Wish Program. I have both donated and volunteers for this amazing organization. Who would think that one person would have the time and heart it takes to change the world for hundreds and hundreds of homeless children. This lady dedicates her life and soul to the program and really runs it on her own. She involves volunteers for the "fun stuff" and makes sure we are all taken care of in that as well. She has everything ready for the children and the party or event, and we just come to lend a hand to make sure everything runs smooth. I have been involved in several organizations, and never seen anything like this one. Not just the dedication and care she has for the program, but the fact she works with such low donation amounts and still does more than anyone would ever believe unless you were there to experience it yourself. I gave a donation first just to fill a stocking. This $15. donation, I figured the children would get about half the value since most nonprofits use donations for overhead and other needs. But, instead the keiki get MORE than the donation value I gave. I helped Magin that year fill 350 stockings and they were more than one could ever imagine. So, from that day forward I have always made a faithful donation for Easter, Christmas and Back to School. I wish I had more to give, it would all go to Christmas Wish Program. Keep up the good works!!
Photos
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
voluteering and donating. I was overwhelmed with the amount of work that Magin does on her own. I could only help a small bit. I also donated money towards the supplies needed to fill stockings, Easter baskets and backpacks on an annual basis since 2002.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
get her a office assistant.
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
seeing the happy faces at the events, and the photos with cards we get after the events are over. The keiki make thank you cards and Magin takes the time to mail them to everyone along with photos she takes at the events. I hang mine on my front window.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
were hard working and caring people. Not enough, but the one's who come make a difference.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
end homelessness in Hawai'i. I know that sounds big, but given the track record of how Magin uses the funds for the clients is unreal. She just seems to make everything work, even if there isn't enough funds.
Ways to make it better...
there were more donors for the supplies we needed. It is a shame that there isn't the support due to this organization.
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
lack of funds and appreciation for all that is provided to the clients.
One thing I'd also say is that...
I admire all that Magin does. I am greatful to be a part of this wonderful organization and hope to continue the good works.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every six months
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
I really enjoyed volunteering for the My Xmas Wish Program last year. I plan to assist some more this year. This is a great organization that makes a huge difference in the lives of the homeless keiki and their families throughout the year and especially during the holidays.
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
knowing our hard work will help out the homeless keiki
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
alleviate a large majority of the homeless keiki issue
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About once a year
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2008
I've been working with Christmas Wish Program for a few years already, and everything is great. Magin is a really sweet and dedicated person that does amazing things for a lot of people. I praise the services Christmas Wish Program provide and I'm very grateful for the opportunity to participate. Keep up the great work!
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What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
Real involvement on the real problems of real people. Christmas Wish Program helps the most needed, and any small effort can change lives.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About once a year
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
One day an elf came to our tent and asked if we had children because Santa was looking for the children on the beaches. I couldn't believe my eyes, on Christmas Eve a real life elf comes to our family with gifts. No questions, or judgement, just gifts from Santa. I don't know who doesn't believe in Santa, we never did. But now we believe. Without Christmas Wish Program our children would have had another empty Christmas, no food, no gifts, nothing. But now we have everything we could ever hope for. Thanks to that little elf who just smiles and thanks us for being there to provide for. Funny, but she thanked us.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
getting gifts, food, and shampoo, etc. My family was blessed when I met Magin.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
nothing
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
just having them there for us.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
just great.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
oh my, she would change the world.
Ways to make it better...
we had a house
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
I don't know, she is so kind and helpful.
One thing I'd also say is that...
Thank you God, Thank you Santa and Thank you Magin for being there
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About once a year
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2008
Magin is awesome! She does this service from the goodness of her heart. It is refreshing to meet someone with such a kind heart, who truly cares without benefitting themselves these days. Thank you to people like her who help others in need. It takes a lot of planning and time to do all the projects she runs. AND she does it with a smile! She even provided the volunteers with snacks and drinks to show her appreciation for helping her HELP others! Amazing one-woman army!
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What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
how unselfish it is.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
enthusiastic and helpful.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
feed a lot more people.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About once a year
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
I am so glad to be part of this survey. I too have been helped by Magin and her volunteers for many years while our family was homeless. Without this organization we would not have healthy meals, or clothing, or even basic needs. Magin always would deliver to us no matter where we were. Sometimes we would have to move from beach park or to a parking lot. She never cared about how far to meet us, just to bring us food when we need, or to make sure we were okay and coming to the next event. She even gave us gas money so our children could attend the party in Hilo for the holidays. Without Christmas Wish Program our children would never experience fun at holidays, or an egg hunt, have photos with Santa, nothing like that. It is hard being a single mom, and even harder living in a van with 5 children. I am happy to be included in this survey. I hope that who ever reads this understands the importance of this program, and helps to support it, or whatever the contest is for, she deserves the prize. She would give us or other families any funds raised, but should be honored with any award. She is our angel sent to care for the homeless children of the islands. We can't live without her.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
by being a homeless family having food and clothing delieverd to us when we need. I have also attended many holiday parties with my children. My children also receved their back to school supplies and went to summer camp. All free of charge and just when
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
get her more help and money to help even more people
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
was being loved and supported, not judged or questioned. Not feeling bad about all the help we got.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
all very nice
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
change the whole islands homeless future. All our children would have a place to live. You know Magin would give it all to benefit our families and make sure it was put to only the best uses.
Ways to make it better...
no way to be better
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
lack of support. volunteers, money, any kind support is still needed
One thing I'd also say is that...
Thank you so much Magin. We thank God for you everyday. See you at the holiday party with Santa.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every month
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
On a recent visit to Hawaii I ran accross Magin and her group outside of a store selling candy to make money to help feed the children in Hawaii. I knew of the Christmas Wish Program and have received literature for years, but to actually witness the dedication to what their mission is was inspiring. Magin's hard work and dedication is unbeleivable. The countless children she has fed and sheltered is truly a miracle in the works. We must continue to support such an important and necessary program.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
I have seen the good work of Christmas Wish Program
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Get more donors to contribute.
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
Receiving pictures of the children smiling.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
Excellent
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
House, clothe and feed the children.
Ways to make it better...
If we coudd get more people interested in helping.
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
Receiving donations because of the economy
One thing I'd also say is that...
This is a dedicated group
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every six months
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
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