Koher family and friends 'adopt' kid's wishes for the holidays

Date: 12/22/2009

By Lori Szepelak

Contributor



CHICOPEE -- Despite the frigid temperatures outside on the evening of Dec. 11, the warmth of friends and family encircled the Sheridan Circle Hall on Sheridan Street during a special Christmas party to benefit Providence Ministries for the Needy (PMN) in Holyoke.

Kim and Allen Koher of Chicopee were the hosts for their second annual Koher Family & Friends gathering, which brought out more than 100 area residents from across the valley.

"We like being Santa and helping children less fortunate," Kim Koher said during an interview with Reminder Publications.

The Kohers weren't the only ones enjoying themselves bearing gifts -- everyone in attendance was there because they wanted to reach out and make a child's Christmas a bit brighter this holiday season.

More than one month ago, the Kohers had invited family and friends to consider "adopting" one of 17 children on their holiday shopping list, and they weren't disappointed -- all the children were spoken for in a matter of days.

For Diane and Jeff MacAdam of Westfield, having four daughters made it easy for them to also adopt a teenage girl (Judy, 14) from the Kohers' list to purchase gifts.

"We bought everything on Judy's wish list, as well as some extra gifts for her," Diane MacAdam said, adding they most enjoyed the experience of helping someone who is less fortunate.

Sheryle Marceau of West Springfield echoed those sentiments.

Marceau had adopted Jillian, age seven, who had a simple wish list -- a Holiday Barbie and an Easy Bake Oven. Not only did Marceau purchase those items, but she also added a variety of cake and cookie mixes to Jillian's gift bag.

"I have three boys so I enjoyed shopping for a little girl," Marceau said. "I'm also happy I'm helping a family in need."

Providence Ministries for the Needy worked with the Kohers to ensure that the most needy families were included on the gift list. Wish list items ranged from nail polish, Spongebob items, books and skateboards to Tonka trucks, school supplies and CD players. The children ranged in age from six months to 14 years. In addition to collecting items for children, friends and family also donated personal care products for the Loreto House men's shelter in Holyoke.

"All it takes is one person to care, and the ripple effect can be overwhelming," Maura Archuleta of Ludlow said. Archuleta and friend Michele Chmura of Belchertown jointly adopted Jason, age six, who will be surprised on Christmas morning with a CD player. "It's a tradition the Kohers have started and it is wonderful to be a part of it," Archuleta added.

Throughout the evening, visitors were invited to a feast of ziti and meatballs, baked beans, kielbasa, pasta salad, cold cuts, and of course, a host of festive desserts -- all prepared by Allen Koher. While Allen remained busy in the kitchen area, Kim was greeting everyone who walked in the door -- and quickly sold them raffle tickets for her Chinese Auction which spanned several red-clothed tables dotted with colorful candy canes. By the end of the evening, the Kohers had raised enough money to also purchase a few small gifts for each child.

Granby resident Dave Engelbrecht of "Tunes for Charity" was also on hand to lend his musical talent during the evening affair.

"Any of my time I can give to help charities that help others is something I don't think twice about volunteering my time to support," Engelbrecht said. "We have all been in a position where we needed the help of others to get us through a tough time in our lives. I feel we all need to give back something to help others who may not have someone who can get them through their tough time. You never know who that struggling person may be. It could be your co-worker, neighbor or even a relative."

Granby residents Ruby and Don Keller, longtime friends of the Kohers, came bearing several gifts, including Chinese auction baskets, desserts and items for the men's shelter.

"Kim and Allen have been good friends for years and they work hard for this event and we wanted to help," Ruby Keller said.

As the evening was coming to a close, the Kohers once again thanked everyone for their generosity and for supporting their efforts to help Providence Ministries for the Needy.

"We thank everyone for helping us help the kids who otherwise might not have had anything to open on Christmas," Allen Koher said.

Kim Koher added that she was thrilled the evening was a "great success" and will start planning next year's affair in the coming months.

PMN hosts a Toys for Kids program each year for needy children in the Greater Holyoke area. Gifts are distributed the week of Christmas to families who have registered through Margaret's Pantry. For area residents still interested in donating a new unwrapped toy, call the PMN office at 536-9109 for more information.