My grandpa and I spent every Christmas season together in some way—whether it was picking out the perfect tree, counting the change he saved all year for the grandkids, or simply lying by the glow of the lights at his house. Toward the end of his life, those moments shifted to quiet evenings in his hospital room, soaking in every second together. He passed away six years ago on Christmas Day.

For a long time after that, my holiday excitement faded. But when my daughter was born, that spark came back. Now, I’m building new memories and traditions with her; ones I hope she’ll treasure as much as I do with my grandpa.

When I heard the Christmas parade was being canceled last year, something in me said, “No, not this.” I wanted my daughter—and everyone’s children—to have the same kind of magic I grew up with. So I volunteered to take it on.

Sometimes it feels like our city is spread out in so many directions that we forget how close we really are. My hope is that by bringing back the parade, we bring our community together and to wave at one another, to laugh, to celebrate something joyful.

What I get out of contributing is seeing people thrive in their gifts. Everyone has a skill or talent that can be used for good. I love connecting those dots and watching someone’s pride and joy when they see their hard work come to life. It’s a reminder that when we each give a little of ourselves, we create something much bigger together.