Last Year Marc Badeau, president of Gorham Kiwanis and Chairman of Operation Holiday Cheer (OHC), thought sending 8,000 gifts to military kids throughout Maine was incredible for its first year effort. This year 23,000 gifts went out the door across New England and New York. Next year, Badeau envisions kids in New Jersey and possibly across the Eastern Seaboard will be receiving those same letters recognizing them as the forgotten heroes of military families who may be separated from their parents during the holidays. Word is spreading and OHC is growing fast, “It’s easier the second year,” said Badeau. “You have history to go back to.” Maine was more successful this year than last year, sending out 10 percent more gifts to registered children.

A total of $650,000 was raised compared to $200,000 last year with help from corporate sponsors like the New York Giants, the NHL and Wal-Mart to name a few. Gorham High School’s Key Club raised $10,000 for OHC through fundraisers in their first year as a club.

“Of every dollar raised, 99.9 percent went to the gift,” said Badeau. “We have virtually no administrative costs other than a monthly phone bill. It is all volunteer-based.”

The program strarted as a Kiwanis group but due to its continued growth, it will become its own non-profit group this coming year and the name will change to Operation Tribute. It will still encompass OHC but will also be a program for families of fallen soldiers to recognize them and help them out as well. The goal is to expand Operation Tribute nationally.

Article by Andrea Morrell, published Feb 20, 2009, Gorham Times