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Friday, January 10, 2025 at 9:46 PM

Festival of Trees draws crowd and donations

The Cottage Home tree won “best in show”. The Cottage Home owner Christie Anna Smith is shown with Vanessa Smith of Jeremiah’s Promise.

The first-ever Festival of Trees gala fundraiser for Jeremiah’s Promise drew a large crowd to J. Leonard’s on Main last Tuesday evening. Vanessa Smith, founder of Jeremiah’s Promise, welcomed all those who came out to support the inaugural event. Jeremiah’s Promise is a local non-profit school and therapeutic center supporting families facing developmental and learning challenges for their children. The gala featured seven decorated holiday trees, a wreath, a nativity painting and additional décor, generously donated by local businesses, organizations and individuals. Each unique tree was auctioned off in a silent bidding event, with proceeds directly benefiting the transformative work of Jeremiah’s Promise. “Jeremiah’s Promise would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the sponsors, attendees and the entire community for their incredible support, which made this event such a success. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Allison Herrin, owner of The Speech Clinic, for serving as the presenting sponsor of the gala and supporting the transformative event,” said Smith. “A special thanks goes to Southeast Pipe Survey, our Platinum Sponsor, for their generous contribution and unwavering commitment to our mission.” Having opened its doors earlier this year, Jeremiah’s Promise will soon move to its new location in Patterson. The organization is dedicated to empowering children and families navigating neurological and behavioral challenges. Through specialized education, therapy and compassionate care, Jeremiah’s Promise seeks to restore hope and provide opportunities for growth and healing.

Genie Bennett (left) and Sara Rollison chat near one of the festive trees up for bid at the gala.
Terry Murray makes a bid on one of the trees in the Festival of Trees.
Caroline Herrin (l-r), Allison Herrin, a gala sponsor and Vanessa Smith, founder of Jeremiah’s Promise, visit during the event.
Talented artist Addie Johnson painted a Nativity scene during the gala.
Talented musician Crystal Murphy performed Christmas music on the violin during the event.

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