The holiday season came alive during the annual party hosted by the Boys and Girls Club, where the Denver Nuggets made a joyful impact on local youth. The organization is calling for increased donations to ensure a bright holiday for the children they serve.
Kids were delighted to engage in crafts, enjoy cookies, and meet special guests, including Nuggets cheerleaders, team mascot Rocky, and Kyle Speller, the voice of the Nuggets. Speller, who has been the team’s public address announcer for 20 seasons, shared his personal connection to the event. “For me, it’s just all about making an impact in any kind of way possible,” he said. He reflected on his own upbringing in a fatherless home and emphasized the importance of after-school programs. “Leaders like these make all the difference.”
This festive gathering allowed the children to connect with the Nuggets in a way they might not experience at a game. “Some of these kids may not get to the arena,” Speller noted. “But just being able to connect with them in this space… you never know what it could mean for them. The hope is that it’s inspirational and motivational, maybe even giving them something to aspire to.”
Skyla, a young participant, expressed her excitement about creating cheers with her friends, while her brother, clad in a Jamal Murray jersey, was thrilled to meet the cheerleaders and Rocky.
Rachel Rooney, Senior Director of Philanthropy for Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Denver, highlighted the importance of community support in their mission. “These kids are so happy. They were clawing at the doors, ready for this night to happen,” she noted. She emphasized that while material gifts are appreciated, experiences like these provide lasting memories.
The Boys and Girls Club serves over 10,000 children across 27 clubs in the Metro Denver area, but this year, the demand for holiday donations has increased. Rooney mentioned that while they have sufficient toys for about 75% of their clubs, they are still in need of more. “Our goal is to ensure every child gets several gifts to take home. We rely on our community for support through time, talent, and treasure.”
As the children enjoyed games and laughter, Speller encouraged them with an uplifting message: “I tell the kids all the time—there’s greatness inside of them. No matter what their present circumstances are, it’s a box they can get out of. Their future is at their fingertips. They were born an original—don’t die a copy.”
The Boys and Girls Club continues to accept toy donations until Christmas Eve, aiming to brighten the holiday season for every child involved.
This heartwarming initiative illustrates the power of community and the impact that just a little kindness can make during the holiday season. By supporting the Boys and Girls Club, individuals can help foster hope and inspiration in the lives of these children, making this holiday truly memorable for them.