Reflecting on the 2024 Annual Chapter Christmas Party

By: Mark Murphy, Executive Director

As we wrapped up another year of service and community for the Chapter in December, I want to take a moment to reflect on the warmth, joy, and camaraderie that filled our 2024 annual Christmas party. We did something new and fun this year by hosting the party at a high-end hibachi restaurant. The hibachi feast included an amazing spread of grilled meats, seafood, and fresh vegetables prepared right in front of us by some really talented chefs. Everyone was treated to a feast of savory flavors and sizzling dishes. The chefs also showed some impressive tricks as they wowed the group with their amazing skills, flipping spatulas, tossing shrimp into the air (and into people’s mouths!), and creating fire eruptions that had everyone in awe. It was quite an exciting and entertaining dining experience. The fun atmosphere of the hibachi grill brought everyone together with plenty of laughs, friendly banter, and good-natured teasing between us. It was a perfect way to strengthen team bonds while enjoying a festive meal.

Our annual Chapter Christmas party is always a special event that brings together our Board of Directors, staff, high-level volunteers, family, and friends for an evening of celebration and gratitude. It is a sterling reminder of the strong and caring community we have built together over the last several years. This year’s holiday gathering was a beautiful testament to the spirit of our Chapter. It was more than just a party; it was an opportunity for all of us to come together and share in the joy of the season. For many of us, the annual Christmas party is one of the highlights of the entire year – a time to reconnect with friends, make new memories, and simply enjoy a night of relaxation and fun. Attendees were gifted with lovely new Winter vests, which included the Chapter logo branded on each vest. Chapter President and National Director Brad Carlson did a really great job working to get these lovely vests designed and produced.

The evening was filled with laughter, music, and heartfelt moments. The festive atmosphere was only enhanced by the delicious hibachi food. One of the most meaningful aspects of the event was seeing so many of our Chapter leaders come together, sharing stories and enjoying each other’s company. It was a reminder that the strength of our chapter lies not just in the programs and services we offer, but in the relationships we build and the support we provide for one another. This sense of community and the feeling of belonging is at the heart of everything we do as a Chapter, especially amongst the joy of the holiday season.
NEPVA Board members, friends and volunteers gathered to celebrate the holidays.

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