For more than four decades, the Voluntary Action Center (VAC) has been spreading holiday cheer through its annual Holiday Program — a community tradition that began as a small gift drive and has grown into a countywide movement of generosity. What started with a handful of donors has evolved into a major year-end effort uniting sponsors, volunteers, and families across Boone County. By 2024, the program reached a whopping 1,033 families, living up to its long-held reputation as VAC’s largest program.
Since its launch in 1983, the Holiday Program has taken on many forms, but its mission has remained constant: connecting local sponsors with Boone County families in need. Eligible families — those at or below 200% of the federal poverty level with at least one child under 18 (or an unborn child due by December 31) — share personalized wish lists so sponsors can shop for gifts that meet real household needs.
The program reflects VAC’s core mission: “responding to the immediate basic needs of individuals and families within our community.” Beyond providing gifts, the Holiday Program emphasizes dignity and shared humanity, “not as charity, but as our belief that when one of us thrives, we all thrive.”
How the Program Works
Each year, sponsors are matched with local families and receive personalized wish lists to help guide their shopping. In addition to gifts, the lists highlight essential household items and food, ensuring families experience both joy and comfort during the holiday season.
For 2025, Program Week will take place December 8–13, when collection, sorting, agency pick-up, and participant distribution all occur. VAC partners with Broadway Christian Church to host the large-scale distribution site that makes this week possible.
Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday are sponsor drop-off days
Thursday is agency pick-up day
Friday and Saturday are participant pick-up days
How to Get Involved
There are several ways to be part of this community effort:
Sponsor a Family: Receive a wish list and shop for a local family.
Donate: Monetary contributions help VAC purchase remaining gift cards and essential items, ensuring every family is included. All donations stay right here in Boone County.
Volunteer: Help accept drop-offs, sort and pack gifts, or assist families during pick-up days.
For more information on VAC’s Holiday Program and the work that the organization does, visit vacmo.org.
