By Leah Garlock | Interim Executive Director
Spreading Joy, Building Tradition
As we enter fall and the end of the year draws near, we’re reflecting on the impact your support has made and the dreams it continues to nurture. Thanks to your generosity, students in Korea’s social welfare system have explored their creativity, traveled to new cities, pursued master’s degrees, stayed active through sports, received computers and tutoring, and much more. Each story reminds us that your support brings every child one step closer to their dreams.
Preparing for a Season of Celebration
While the holidays are still a few months away, our preparations begin early to ensure every detail is in place for our annual celebrations. By late summer, we reconnect with U.S. Fulbright English Teaching Assistants (ETAs), young adults living in Korea through a U.S. government-funded grant who volunteer as co-chairs and committee members. Together, we brainstorm activity booth ideas, write talent show scripts, design holiday campaigns, and organize supply lists. It’s the perfect example of how teamwork truly makes the dream work.
This planning doesn’t happen in isolation. We work closely with the children’s homes we support, gathering feedback throughout the process to make each celebration even more meaningful. This year, one home requested that we dream up more creative and inclusive stations, especially for older teens. Our team is now developing new activities that will make every child feel seen and valued.
In addition to the holiday party activities, we make sure each child receives a gift from their holiday wish list. This annual tradition began when KKOOM’s co-founders (who were also Fulbright ETAs at the time), raised donations to provide holiday gifts and activities for children. Our annual holiday parties, are a beautiful reminder of our humble beginnings, and how one act of giving and generosity can go a long way.
Joy That Lasts Beyond the Day
This year, our holiday parties will reach more than 300 children across several children’s homes in Korea’s Gyeongsangbukdo region, many of whom will celebrate the holidays only through this event. Year after year, the laughter, songs, and shared moments remind us why this work matters.
“It wasn’t until I volunteered for the second time that I realized just how much joy the Christmas parties bring to the children. Volunteering taught me how meaningful these traditions are and how even a little bit of time can bring such big smiles to their faces.”
HeeJae | 2019 KKOOM Christmas Volunteer and KKOOM Board Member
Each celebration builds upon lessons from the last, creating cherished traditions that offer comfort and stability in the midst of uncertainty. For many children, it’s more than just a party, it’s a reminder that they are loved, remembered, and worthy of joy.
Looking Ahead with Gratitude
As we prepare for another season of joy, we’re reminded that it’s your generosity that makes this tradition possible. Your continued support allows us to create spaces of belonging, laughter, and hope for children who deserve nothing less.
Thank you for being part of KKOOM’s story and for helping us keep this beautiful tradition alive year after year.
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