As the holiday season approaches, Whaley Children’s Center once again fills with the warmth, light, and joy that only true community spirit can bring. For nearly a century, Whaley has served as a safe haven for children in foster care—providing not just a place to stay, but a home where they can heal, grow, and feel loved.
This year, as the Center celebrates the holidays, it also marks an important milestone and a new chapter in its long history of service. In October 2024, Whaley launched its Mental Health and Behavioral Stabilization Program at the request of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. This program serves foster youth with extensive trauma histories and complex behavioral health needs, reaffirming Whaley’s commitment to meeting children where they are and surrounding them with compassion and care.
Even as Whaley’s mission expands, one tradition remains unchanged—celebrating the holidays as a family. For many of the youth at Whaley, the holidays have not always been joyful. Many arrive with painful memories of this season, often marked by instability or loss. Whaley’s dedicated staff and volunteers work tirelessly to change that narrative. From decorating the cottages to baking cookies and sipping hot cocoa, every detail is designed to help the kids experience the magic of the holidays in a new way—one filled with laughter, warmth, and belonging.
The celebrations at Whaley are about more than decorations and gifts—they’re about connection. Each youth is sponsored by a member of the community, a local business, or a civic organization. Sponsors receive a short “about me” profile that shares a bit about the child’s interests, favorite colors, and hobbies, along with a personal wish list. This thoughtful touch ensures that every gift feels personal, meaningful, and wrapped with care. No child is left out, and every youth has an equal stack of beautifully wrapped presents waiting on Christmas morning.
Beyond the gifts and festive traditions, these moments remind the youth that they are seen, valued, and loved. The sight of stockings overflowing, the smell of a holiday meal, and the comfort of cozy new pajamas—all of it creates memories that last long after their time at Whaley. These experiences offer healing and hope, helping each young person imagine a future filled with possibility.
None of this would be possible without the unwavering generosity of the Flint and Genesee County community. Year after year, individuals, families, and businesses step up to make the season bright for Whaley’s youth. Their support transforms what could be a painful time into one of joy and belonging. As Whaley Children’s Center celebrates both the holidays and this new era of care, it extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who continues to show up—reminding these young people, and the staff who care for them, that community truly is the heart of the holidays.
Whaley also experiences its biggest outpouring of support through the Giving Tree Program, which helps meet the Center’s everyday needs throughout the year. Each Giving Tree is decorated with tags listing essential items—laundry detergent, cough drops, fruit snacks, towels, and small gift cards (so youth can grab a quick meal while traveling for visits)—everything that keeps a home running for 42 children. Any business, group, club, or family can host a Giving Tree to support Whaley’s mission year-round.
“With our new programming and higher levels of care, we’ve had to make some changes to what can be safely allowed on campus, especially for youth with suicidal concerns,” said Mindy Williams, president and CEO of Whaley. “While items like drawstrings, glass, or electronics with charging cords can’t be included, our donors have been incredibly understanding and grateful to learn the reasons behind these changes. Their willingness to adapt has kept the holiday spirit alive while ensuring our kids remain safe.”
“The holidays at Whaley Children’s Center are always about the kids. Seeing their faces light up with joy and wonder is the best gift of all,” said Nadeem Gebrael, chair of Whaley’s Board of Directors. “But what touches me just as deeply is watching our staff pour their hearts into making the season magical for every child. Their pride, compassion, and unwavering dedication shine brighter than any holiday light. This past year has been another example of the incredible support our community provides. Thank you for believing in our children, our staff, and our mission.”
Denise Zerka, marketing coordinator at Whaley, added, “The holidays always bring a little extra magic to our Center. It starts with getting our kids’ wish lists and continues as our amazing sponsors bring those wishes to life. Seeing the joy and excitement our kids feel reminds us what this season is all about—love, giving, and community.”
