The Association of the Devon Christmas Elves

The Association of the Devon Christmas Elves is a Canadian registered nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families in need by providing Christmas gifts, food, and other essentials. Established as a charitable foundation in 2001, it operates primarily in Devon, Alberta, Canada, with the mission to ensure that every family experiences the joy of Christmas through community engagement and volunteer efforts.

History and Background

The origins of the Devon Christmas Elves trace back to an initiative originally run by the Devon Kinette Club, with assistance from the Devon Ministerial Association to deliver Christmas hampers to families in need. After several years of management by the Ministerial Association, the program was formally incorporated as The Association of the Devon Christmas Elves in 2001, gaining charitable status from the Canada Revenue Agency. Since then, the organization has held annual general meetings each October, inviting community members to participate and elect officers to oversee operations.

Mission and Activities

The organization’s mission focuses on fostering a community spirit that extends beyond mere neighborhood ties by opening hearts to help less fortunate families during the Christmas season. It aims to raise funds, collect food, and gather toys to support families who may otherwise be unable to provide a Christmas celebration for their children.

Each year, the Association organizes campaigns that involve soliciting donations from local businesses, schools, churches, and community groups. Collection tins are also placed in retail stores and banks around Devon to encourage charitable contributions. The entire fundraising effort is volunteer-driven, with a board and numerous helpers coordinating the process of assembling and distributing aid.

Program Evolution

In recent years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Association adapted its approach to delivering aid. Instead of distributing physical hampers containing food and toys, they shifted to providing recipients with gift cards to local grocery stores and shops. This change was implemented to respect health guidelines and offer recipients the dignity and flexibility to purchase items that best suit their family’s nutritional needs and preferences for gifts. Feedback from families showed a strong preference for gift cards over traditional hampers, leading the Association to continue this method post-pandemic.

Funding and Impact

The Association operates entirely on donations, with 100% of contributions going directly towards the Christmas campaigns. Monetary donations collected year-round fund the next season’s activities. The volunteers successfully deliver gift cards to over 80 homes each campaign season, ensuring the community’s vulnerable families receive support and experience the spirit of Christmas.

Governance and Community Engagement

The Association holds an annual general meeting where new officers are elected, and any interested community members are welcome to attend. This openness emphasizes transparency and community involvement in the organization’s governance. The volunteer board plays a crucial role in managing campaigns and coordinating the distribution of donations.

The Association of the Devon Christmas Elves remains a vital part of the Devon community, uniting residents and local businesses in a shared mission to provide holiday joy and assistance to families in need. Their charitable work exemplifies the power of volunteerism and community spirit in fostering social support networks in times of need.

Business Number: 885015313RR0001
Status: Registered Charity (Canada Revenue Agency)

© 2025 The Association of the Devon Christmas Elves[1][2][4][5]