Spreading Joy at the Holidays

The SAG-AFTRA Nashville Choir

Steve Pippin, Vickie Carrico, Cindy Shelton, Dana McVicker

Santa on tour

Each year, as we have done for more than 25 years, members of AFTRA, now SAG-AFTRA, take time out to give to others by singing holiday carols to those less fortunate than us. On Dec. 11, 2012, 75 members and guests of the Nashville Local spent the day “touring” on a GrayLine Bus and caroling at the Knowles Retirement Center, the Women and Children’s Mission, Men’s Mission and the Tennessee School for the Blind. What a fun and rewarding time we had!

In today’s busy world, we sometimes forget that people are hurting, lonely or feel left out at the holidays. This is our way of sharing our talents and giving back to others who need a little show of love. Smiles on faces at the nursing home, homeless adults and children, and little blind children are gifts back to us that make the holidays so much brighter for all who carol.

I have the privilege to be Santa for our caroling troupe. I have a hard time with emotions when a child comes to me and wants me to pick them up and hug them. Homeless children tell me what they want for Christmas … blind children run their hands over my face and feel my shoulders to confirm I am real. This is what makes my holiday complete!

This is our union family at its best.  If you want to share your gift of voice and experience the happiness and joy at the Holidays, make plans to come with us this December. You don’t have to spend money to give such a great gift to others.

Chris Ladd,
Nashville Local Board Co-Treasurer