Stu's Story
Stuart Walthers was a community servant to the core — a deputy sheriff and a pastor for over 40 years. He lived his whole life helping people, quietly, humbly, and never once for applause. In fact, after he passed in August of 2020, so much was learned about more of the good he did — the secret missions of kindness he never bothered to mention. That was him. No spotlight needed.
After losing him, Stu’s daughter -- Nicole Jones, promised that his legacy wouldn’t end just because he was no longer here to carry it. So Nicole and her family started “Walking in Stu’s Footsteps.” Every Christmas, they chose families in need and made sure their holiday was taken care of — top to bottom, gifts to dinner and everything in between. Nicole joined forces with Backpack Buddies in November 2024. This beautiful partnership has turned into a friendship and a mission to keep Stu’s legacy alive.
Walk of Trees
This year we will have a variety of Christmas Trees available for auction at the ball.
Donation Guidelines
- Donor provides their own artificial tree.
- Tree is permitted to have a tree skirt and small floor décor if desired.
- Tree MAY have business branding.
- Tree drop-off window is 10:00am to 2:00pm at the Sanborn Center.
- Set up in your designated spot inside the center.
- All décor must be fastened with zip ties or twist ties, so decorations are secured, and no pieces fall off during transport.
If you are interested in donating a tree please contact us.
If you would like to attend our Christmas Ball, please reach out to our Ambassadors (listed below) for a ticket. Each ticket is for two guests. In lieu of a cover charge, please bring unwrapped gifts with suggested retail value of $100 per person. With your help, we can make this Christmas the best ever for our local kids!
Laurie Lindsay
Mel Zeller
Kelli Marks
Nicole Jones
Jean Collock
Denise & Tony Klein
Ken Pfeifauf
Larry Drumb
Eddie Stamm
Victor Ramos
Rakel Fairfull
Randy Marshall
Susie Magendanz
Mike Chimento
Patty D'Alessandro
Lorenzo Brown
Senator Tom Wright
Brenda Beery
If you are interested in becoming an Ambassador please contact us.