The festive atmosphere was palpable during the annual Boys and Girls Club celebration, where the Denver Nuggets spread cheer among local children. This year, the club emphasized the importance of donations to help make the holiday season memorable for all.
Children were thrilled to engage in crafting, indulging in cookies, and meeting special guests, including Nuggets cheerleaders, the team mascot Rocky, and Kyle Speller, the iconic voice of the Denver Nuggets.
Speller, who has been the public address announcer for two decades, expressed the importance of his involvement. “It’s all about making an impact in any way possible,” he stated, reflecting on his own childhood experiences growing up in a single-parent household. He emphasized how after-school programs shaped his life and could similarly benefit current youth.
The event allowed children to experience a nugget of the team’s magic, even if they never get to attend a game live. “Some of these kids may not get to the arena,” Speller remarked, highlighting the significance of making connections outside the usual settings. “You never know what it could mean for them. The hope is that it inspires them.”
For Skyla, a participant at the club, the joy came from creating cheers with friends, while her brother, proudly wearing a Jamal Murray jersey, was eager to meet the cheerleaders and Rocky.
Rachel Rooney, Senior Director of Philanthropy for Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Denver, noted the vital role community support plays in their operations. “These kids were clawing at the doors, ready for this night to happen,” she said. “While physical gifts are fantastic, experiences like this create lasting memories.”
The Boys and Girls Club currently supports over 10,000 kids across 27 locations in Metro Denver. This year, the demand for holiday donations has increased significantly. Rooney shared that they have enough toys to serve about 75% of their clubs but are seeking additional support to ensure every child receives several gifts this season.
Speller also took the time to inspire the children, reminding them that “there’s greatness inside of them” and that their current circumstances do not define their future possibilities. “They were born an original—don’t die a copy,” he encouraged.
The Boys and Girls Club continues to accept toy donations through Christmas Eve to help brighten the holidays for every child. For more details on where to donate, visit their official page.
This heartwarming event exemplifies the power of community and the impact of support for local youth. The encouragement and joy shared during this celebration not only uplifted spirits but also underscored the importance of giving and connection during the holiday season.