In 2008, the dream, vision and “what if”, became a reality. Not only did we launch the 4th Annual to a full fledged benefit- but we exceeded every goal and expectation we set when we planned the party. Looking back- it was grueling at times, but incredibly fulfilling seeing the outcome and the result. Over $7,000 was raised for Operation Breakthrough in 2008.

Here is the story behind the party (if you don’t know):

The Ugly Christmas Sweater Party began in 2005, as a small holiday gathering hosted by a group of friends (me +2 roommates). While cleaning up in 2007, we decided to turn all of our hard work in to good for others, and raise money for a charity.

A steering committee of 15 volunteers made time to plan this party. We aren’t affiliated with any one organization – we’re just a group of friends who want to give back to our community.

Our goal is to make a positive impact by donating as much money and toys to Operation Breakthrough as possible. Our vision for the Ugly Christmas Sweater Party is to make it the biggest and best annual holiday fundraiser in Kansas City!

Fast forward to 2009 and the planning of the 5th Annual, our second year of being a “real-deal” benefit party. Rather than being intimidated about topping last year’s party- we went full force with ensuring that 2009 was bigger and better. Careful planning to upgrade the party were outlined and executed. The original steering committee was back for the second year and we were more motivated than before. It was incredible to see the us find our stride again- but this year, we found it was far more effective to play to the strengths of each committee member to get stuff done.

Long nights, hard work and careful planning paid off …again. We set the goal of $10,000 and we raised over $16,000 to give back to Operation Breakthrough! Again, in our wildest dreams (and our Excel spreadsheet that had our estimated financial goals) we never even thought it was possible that we could raise this much.

I mentioned this before in a blog post last year- but in planning this party, I have found there’s a lot of people out there that sincerely want to do good in this world- they just don’t have the right opportunity to do it. We, as a group of friends, have made it our mission to do good by planning this party and empower others to have an opportunity to not only do good, but carry the message about Operation Breakthrough.

This party is OUR mark in the world in being the difference.

I have learned so much more than just how to throw a party. These experiences and lessons learned, have truly made us all better people. I still get chills thinking about how a small house party has evolved into something much bigger. We are making a direct impact in the community, right here, in a city we’re all proud of, Kansas City.

I get excited even at just the mere thoughts of what we are capable of accomplishing in the future. While this is our “5th Annual”, it’s still very much only the beginning. The best still has yet to come for The Ugly Christmas Sweater Party. Stay tuned for 2010. After all, this party is Kansas City’s biggest, wildest, sweateriest bash of the season!
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