TRPA Brings Holiday Cheer to Families in Need

By Kristi Boosman
Staff and members of the Governing Board at the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency got into the holiday spirit this year by trying to make the holidays a little nicer for some local children and families in need.

“We know many local families are struggling this year,” said Jill Larson, one of the organizers of TRPA’s holiday drive. “The staff really wanted to help,” she said.

Bins were placed in TRPA’s lobby where TRPA staff and community members donated toys, non-perishable food items, and warm clothes. Front counter and Human Resources staff also collected $340 in checks and cash for St. Theresa’s Food Pantry. In total, TRPA collected donations or made contributions to over half-a-dozen local organizations including:

South Lake Tahoe Women’s Center
Boys & Girls Club of South Lake Tahoe
St. Theresa’s Food Pantry
Christmas Cheer
Tahoe Youth & Family Services
CASA - Court Appointed Special Advocate Association

“The current staff members at TRPA are some of the most committed and compassionate people I’ve worked with,” said TRPA Executive Director Joanne S. Marchetta. “I’m proud of their commitment to help our local community.”

Individual staff members also volunteered to help the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program for children moved from their homes and placed in foster care. Seven children ranging in ages from 9 months to 17 years were provided their requested gifts including snowsuits and warm clothes, building blocks, art supplies, books and other toys.

“I was very pleased with the outpouring of support from staff wanting to help foster children,” said Ethan Casaday, a TRPA Environmental Specialist who organized the CASA drive. “The generosity and caring they showed was very moving,” he said.

Amanda Morozumi, the Site Manager of South Lake Tahoe CASA of El Dorado County agreed.

“Many thanks to you (TRPA) and your staff for the generous donations to our CASA kiddos,” said Morozumi. “We are truly blessed to be living in a generous and giving community.”

The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency cooperatively leads the effort to preserve, restore, and enhance the unique natural and human environment of the Lake Tahoe Region now and in the future. For additional information, call Kristi Boosman at (775) 589-5230 or send an email to kboosman@trpa.org.