The United Way of Southern West Virginia had great success with our first “Wonderland of Trees” event.  We are very pleased to announce that this event will be available again this year.  The idea for a festival of trees was originated by its Chairman, Mr. Richard Jarrell. “We wanted to create a new special event that represents families, fun and giving, and the spirit of the holidays, all for a great cause,” says Richard. This will be a two week event featuring beautifully decorated trees created with care by their designers..

Click Here to Download Sponsor/Design Agreement

Click Here to Download WREATH Sponsor/Design Agreement

Tree designers can be clubs, businesses, organizations, churches or individuals that would like to become a part of this exciting new event. The cost will be $125.00 to design or sponsor a tree, which includes a 7 ½ pre-lit Christmas tree that will be set up and ready to decorate. The trees will be displayed and the public will be invited to come by the Mall and vote for their favorite tree. Each voter will be asked to donate $1.00 per vote with all proceeds benefiting our United Way. Each voter will also be registered to win a new television donated by John Eye Big Sandy Superstore.
Designers will name their tree and decorate with a theme that they choose. “We have seen trees themed with snowmen, pet treats, traditional, business oriented and many others as we explored other festivals”, comments Margaret O’Neal, United Way Director. We are encouraging people to “think outside the box” and really get their creative juices flowing when it comes to decorating the trees.  New in 2010 will be wreaths.  Small businesses or individuals will be able to decorate a wreath that will then be displayed during the Wonderland of Trees.  These wreaths will then be sold for a set price during the last day of the event.  Sponsoring a wreath will cost $50.00.
On November 18th, we will be auctioning off the trees and the grand finale will also include a silent auction consisting of various donated items. The winner of the “People’s Choice Award” will be featured in West Virginia South magazine and also receive a plaque, compliments of Crossroads Mall.
We expect the Wonderland of Trees event to grow every year and become a vital addition to the fundraising efforts during United Way’s fall campaign. Our intention is also for this event to become a gift to the community making the Crossroads Mall a holiday destination for everyone during the holiday season.
If you are not yet involved, there are many opportunities to participate in this years’ event. We are still looking for tree designers, silent auction items and volunteers. For more information on how you can support this event, please call Margaret O’Neal at United Way of Southern WV, 304-253-2111.