Carolyn Bouchard-MacNeil, a dedicated mother of three, finds herself juggling countless responsibilities as the holiday season approaches, making her life busier than ever before.
Every year, from November through mid-December, her cozy home nestled in the Notre-Dame-de-Grâce neighbourhood undergoes a remarkable transformation into what can only be described as a bustling toy workshop, earning her the affectionate title of a real-life Santa Claus in her community.
“At this time of year, it’s always new toys that we’re giving, new gifts for kids,” Bouchard-MacNeil emphasizes, reflecting on last year’s incredible success, “with our efforts, we managed to bring joy to over 4,300 children in Montreal.”
What began as a humble holiday toy drive among friends has since evolved into Carolyn’s Community, a thriving organization dedicated to spreading holiday cheer. This initiative collaborates closely with numerous local non-profits, including crucial shelters that provide safe refuge for women and their children in need.
After two decades of heartfelt dedication, Bouchard-MacNeil takes immense pride in the growth of her initiative, which continues to expand its reach and impact year after year. She is equally proud of how Carolyn’s Community distinguishes itself through its unique approach to gifting.
“It’s not just dropping off a toy in a box. People actually choose a child by their age and gender. They buy for that specific child and then drop it off in a gift bag tagged with, you know… male, four years old or female, 11 years old,” explains the founder and executive director of Carolyn’s Community, showcasing the personal touch that makes their mission so special.
The rules for gifting are simple yet impactful:
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Those giving can offer a monetary donation or shop themselves, making participation accessible to everyone. -
If buying for a child aged 12 or younger, one can donate a toy valued at $30, ensuring every child receives a cherished gift. -
For those over 12, gift cards serve as a fantastic option, allowing recipients to choose something they truly want. -
Find a drop-off location at carolynscommunity.com, where all donations are collected before being distributed to families in need.
Recognizing the need to broaden their impact, Bouchard-MacNeil stated, “I realized how much people wanted to take part, so we opened up another branch of women’s gifts. The teens and women are always the ones that we struggle at the end trying to find gifts for because younger kids, everybody wants or is eager to get for.”
She expresses heartfelt gratitude to her “head elves,” a term she lovingly uses to refer to her many dedicated helpers throughout the city of Montreal, whose support has been instrumental to the ongoing success of Carolyn’s Community.
When asked about the enormous undertaking, her daughter Ginger, who is still a child herself, beautifully summarized the mission, saying, “You know that feeling when you wake up and you’re so excited because now you get something. And it’s special to have that experience because not all the people have that. But then you have my mom here just giving it to everybody and that’s like a wish.”
While managing her growing responsibilities, Bouchard-MacNeil is aware that she may need to enlist additional help to keep up with the increasing operational demands. However, she remains hopeful that Carolyn’s Community will continue its important work for many more years to come.
**What inspired Carolyn Bouchard-MacNeil to start her holiday initiative in Montreal?**
**Interview with Carolyn Bouchard-MacNeil: Spreading Holiday Cheer in Montreal**
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us, Carolyn. As the holiday season approaches, your efforts through Carolyn’s Community have touched thousands of lives. Can you share how your journey began?
**Carolyn Bouchard-MacNeil**: Absolutely! It all started about two decades ago with a simple holiday toy drive among friends. We wanted to give back during the holidays, and it just grew from there. Today, we’re a full-fledged organization dedicated to spreading holiday cheer, especially to those in need.
**Interviewer**: That’s incredible! Last year, you mentioned that your initiative helped over 4,300 children in Montreal. What does it take to organize such a large-scale effort?
**Carolyn Bouchard-MacNeil**: It takes a lot of heart and teamwork! From November through mid-December, my home turns into a toy workshop. We collaborate with local non-profits and shelters to ensure we reach families in need. Our unique approach allows donors to choose a specific child to buy for, which means we can personalize the gifting experience.
**Interviewer**: Personalization seems to be a core value for Carolyn’s Community. How do you think this impacts the recipients?
**Carolyn Bouchard-MacNeil**: It makes a huge difference! When donors can select gifts tailored to a child’s age and gender, it creates a more meaningful connection. We’re not just dropping off toys; we’re sharing a moment of joy and thoughtfulness with each child, which is what the holidays are all about.
**Interviewer**: That sense of connection is beautiful. Can you explain how people can get involved in your initiative?
**Carolyn Bouchard-MacNeil**: Of course! There are two main ways to participate: you can either shop for a specific child or make a monetary donation. This inclusivity allows everyone to contribute, regardless of their circumstances. We welcome every bit of help because it all adds up to make a significant impact.
**Interviewer**: As a dedicated mother and leader of this initiative, how do you balance your personal life with your community work, especially during the hectic holiday season?
**Carolyn Bouchard-MacNeil**: It’s definitely a juggling act! I lean on my family for support, and we all pitch in. My kids are also part of this journey, learning the importance of giving back. It can be demanding, but seeing the smiles on children’s faces makes it all worthwhile.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Carolyn, for your inspiring work and for sharing your story with us today. Is there anything else you’d like to add for those considering participating in Carolyn’s Community?
**Carolyn Bouchard-MacNeil**: Just that we truly appreciate every gesture, big or small. The spirit of the season is about coming together to support one another. If everyone pitches in a little, imagine the joy we can create together!
**Interviewer**: Well said, Carolyn. Thank you for your time and for the wonderful work you do during this special time of year!
