Somehow, someway, the world always delivers. When we think about it, even when we are in a moment of scarcity, something always, miraculously works out. Perhaps that is the miracle and magic of this universe, or perhaps it is because of the people who create an abundant community? Either way, while we may not always know the details of when, where, how, or why things will work out, we can trust that they always do.
When it comes to the holiday season, many families in our area are wondering about the details of how they can bring the miracle and magic of Christmas to their children when they barely have enough money for food, let alone buying gifts.
While we know that gifts and “things” do not create a happy and “merry” Christmas, in the eyes and soul of an itty-bitty child, having gifts to open and toys to play with at Christmas time create merry and magical memories that last longer than that holiday season.
The local non-profit organization, Jeffco Shop With A Cop creates a miraculous opportunity for children in Jefferson County to have toys to play with at Christmas time, and magical memories that last longer than a holiday season.
Earlier in the fall season, I had the great honor and privilege to talk with the Vice President of Jeffco Shop With A Cop, Lewis Pippin. Lewis is one of the original founding members of Jeffco Shop With A Cop, having served as the Vice President since 2017. He is also a highly respected, community-driven Captain of the Festus Police Department.
Lewis beamed with pride, talking about how far the Jeffco Shop With A Cop organization has come since its inception. They have developed a robust team of dedicated volunteers from 27 Jefferson County first responder agencies to collaborate with 11 Jefferson County public school districts to provide an opportunity in December for children to literally shop with a cop, or with another heroic first responder within a police, fire, EMS, or dispatch role.
Magical moments are created when nearly 600 children are able to walk the store aisles and fill a shopping cart, picking out toys to make their Christmas merry. This has evolved into a couple of fun-filled events, creating a miraculous memory for qualifying children ages kindergarten through sixth grade, and their shopping buddy.
Lewis radiated with even more pride when he talked about some of the children who had a Jeffco Shop With A Cop experience years ago. Due to the abundant and magical miracles that this team, and our community, created within their childhood, they were motivated to choose a career in an industry that allows them to give back to our community. THEY now radiate with pride as they now serve to “return the favor,” now proudly helping another child, or family, when they need it the most, just as they had received help when their family needed it the most.
This full circle example shines a beautiful light on how sharing, connecting, and supporting, from a place of abundance, proves magical miracles always show up, especially to those who need it the most.
While everything is in place for yet another magical, abundant, and miraculous experience for the 2023 Jeffco Shop With A Cop events, Lewis said they are still looking for people to donate to sponsor a child.
While the actual, magical Jeffco Shop With A Cop events take place in December, the momentum is needed throughout the year to ensure these miracles can become a reality year after year.
“Some people think a miracle is only a miracle if it happens instantaneously, but miracles can grow slowly. Patience and faith can compel things to happen that otherwise never would have come to pass.”
- Boyd K. Packer
People in our community can help to nourish this incredible initiative, slowly, throughout the year. Whether it is through donations, volunteering, or participating in future (fun!) fundraiser events, Lewis encourages everyone to help in a way that works for them.
It is within the collective collaboration of time, energy, and resources that we are able to create the essence of an abundant community.
When we can intentionally support others when they need it most, without judgment, with genuine love, we can create a true community that always delivers.
This is a non-paid endorsement, encouraging you to connect with Jeffco Shop With A Cop, or another local non-profit organization that resonates with you, to share what you have to offer.
We all have something to offer…even if it is by simply taking a moment out to share this link/story to spread the word. With our collective collaboration, things just always, miraculously work out.
Connect:
Festus Police Department – 100 Park Ave, Festus, MO 63028
636-937-3646 (ask for Jessica Griffaw, Lewis Pippin, or Stephanie Rogers)
jgriffaw57@festusmo.gov or lpippin58@festusmo.gov
Lewis and I talked on our charming and historic Festus Main Street while we dined outside on the lovely lower patio at one of our favorite local establishments: Main & Mill Brewing Company. Explore why we love this place:
Lewis and I met when the Festus Police Department was recognized by the Twin City Area Optimist Club. Thank you to club member, Becky Francis, for introducing us. Learn why I am a proud member of this non-profit organization:
Believing in abundance is a real thing. Check out an earlier reflection about this concept:
