The annual holiday celebration at the Boys and Girls Club brought plenty of joy to local children, thanks to the Denver Nuggets. The event featured a festive atmosphere filled with crafts, cookies, and special appearances from Nuggets cheerleaders, the team’s mascot Rocky, and Kyle Speller, the voice of the Denver Nuggets.
Speller, who has lent his voice to the Nuggets for two decades, reflected on the importance of such initiatives. Having grown up in a fatherless household, he emphasized how crucial after-school programs were in his own life and hopes to inspire the children attending the event. “You never know what it could mean for them,” he said, highlighting the potential impact on their future.
Among the children, Skyla expressed joy in making up cheers with her friends, while her brother proudly wore a Jamal Murray jersey and eagerly awaited meeting the cheerleaders and Rocky.
Rachel Rooney, Senior Director of Philanthropy for Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Denver, noted the organization’s reliance on community support to fulfill their mission. “These kids were clawing at the doors, ready for this night to happen,” she observed, pointing out that experiences like these create lasting memories beyond material gifts.
Currently, the Boys and Girls Club serves over 10,000 children across 27 locations in Metro Denver. This year, there is a growing need for holiday donations. While they currently have enough toys for around 75% of their clubs, Rooney indicated that further contributions are essential to ensure every child receives multiple gifts this holiday season.
Speller shared an empowering message with the kids, reminding them that “there’s greatness inside of them,” and encouraged them to believe in their potential, regardless of their current circumstances.
The Boys and Girls Club continues to accept toy donations until Christmas Eve, inviting the community to contribute to making this holiday season special for the children.
This event exemplifies the spirit of giving and community support during the holidays, providing hope and joy to children who may otherwise miss out on such experiences.
For those inspired to help, information on toy donations through Christmas Eve can be found on designated local websites.