ALWAYS ONE MINISTRIES
A1M ANNUAL CHRISTMAS OUTREACH EVENT
Every year, A1M partners with some of our favorite "fun" bands, and some local churches & organizations to help local families who are really going through some rough times at the Christmas season. It is an event that is really close to our hearts.
As kids, a few of the A1M crew, had families that were having some economic problems. That Christmas an organization came to their home and delivered gifts for the kids. It was something that would never be forgotten. A1M had been looking for a way to do something special for struggling families.
It just so happened that one summer night, one of our favorite bands, was trying to find a way to "do something MORE than just put on a show." Well, after heading to a Protest show, we sat in a Burger King and hashed out the plan. The plan would be for us to find some local families that are, for whatever reason, struggling. We would raise money to buy presents for all of the family members. We would have our band friends come in and DELIVER the gifts to the families. It would be something special for the kids.
The bands have always come back from the deliveries speaking of how much of an emotional, and touching event it was. The very first year, all of the bands and the staff returned wiping tears from their eyes, saying, "we have to do this again."
In addition to the gift deliveries, we also have a bus that goes out to pick up each of the families and brings them to the venue where we will have a huge, "family style," holiday meal. These meals allow the family members to eat with the band members, the staff, and invited guests, and features all the foods you'd imagine at a Christmas meal. Turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, and much more...
The gifts and the meal are just a part of the full day... the night ends with those same bands opening the doors to a FREE concert. Well, actually, a concert doesn't really describe it. It is part rock and roll show, part Christmas party, and 100% unforgettable.
