Lexington families are being invited to step into the role of Santa’s helpers this holiday season. Partners for Youth, a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting at‑risk youth, has launched its second annual “Be an Elf” campaign, seeking volunteers to provide Christmas gifts for up to 100 teenagers between the ages of 13 and 18.
Why teens need a hand
Executive Director Shanreka Shackelford explained that many existing holiday giving programs focus on younger children, leaving older teens overlooked. “I had no idea that teens were not included in some of the popular programming that gives every season,” Shackelford said. “That can’t be. We program for teens, everything we do, you know, we include all kids, but teens are our majority.”
How the “Be an Elf” program works
Community members who sign up as elves receive a personalized Christmas wish list from a matched teen. Volunteers then purchase or provide the requested items, delivering a tangible reminder that the community cares about their future. Shackelford emphasized that the program’s success depends on the number of volunteers who step forward: “If I get an over‑flood of elves, the more children I can help.”
Impact beyond the gifts
For Shackelford, the initiative is about more than material presents. She noted that many teenagers try to appear self‑sufficient, saying, “They put on that air of, ‘No, I’m good, I’m fine.’ But I see the little kid in their eyes, and I see their reaction when we do the small things.” The small gestures aim to reinforce family‑like support and remind teens that their community values them.
How to get involved
Residents can locate “Be an Elf” posters throughout Lexington, each featuring a QR code that links to registration details. The online portal provides step‑by‑step instructions for signing up, selecting a teen, and completing the gift purchase. Those interested may also click the direct link provided by Partners for Youth to begin the process.
Supporting families and faith‑based values
The program aligns with Lexington’s strong tradition of family‑centered service and Christian generosity. By encouraging neighbors to act as surrogate parents during the holidays, “Be an Elf” reinforces the biblical principle of caring for the vulnerable and teaches young people the lasting value of community stewardship.
Looking ahead
Shackelford hopes the initiative will grow in future years, expanding both the number of participating elves and the teens served. “Our goal is to make Christmas special for as many young people as possible,” she said. “When families and churches rally together, we can lift up the next generation and keep our community strong.”
For more information or to become an elf, visit the Partners for Youth website or scan a local poster’s QR code.
Original reporting: LEX18 Lexington (local) — read the source article.
