Festival of Trees’ 2016 return deemed a success, next year a go

On Dec. 2, Taos’ DreamTree Project and El Monte Sagrado Living Resort & Spa brought back a much-loved holiday fundraiser with the goal to raise some serious dollars for a good cause — the Festival of Trees.

DreamTree Executive Director Catherine Hummel said the evening event – which included a silent auction of decorated trees and wreaths, holiday activities for kids, food, local music and more – was a success.

“We’re very excited to have raised over $19,000 for the first year back for Festival of Trees,” Hummel said. She added that the actual net proceeds from the event, excluding costs, will be released at a later date.

The funds are expected to enhance services for a bevy of Taos nonprofits, specifically those serving youth. That focus is a standout change to this year’s installment and one that’s timely, given the suicide tragedies that have impacted Taos youth this year.

“All of them share a similar mission,” DreamTree volunteer Cristy Holden said, referring to the local nonprofits set to benefit from the funds. “That is, to provide activities so that kids stay safe and stay occupied and to provide a safety net for kids who are at risk.”

The nonprofits include Big Brothers Big Sisters, Bridges Project for Education, Café Scientifique, Rocky Mountain Youth Corps, Twirl, Youth Heartline and DreamTree.

Many local business sponsors, family and friends joined in the festivities, as well as local artists, including Ed Sandoval, and local musicians, such as Bob Andrews.

“It was a lot of fun,” said Irene Loy, DreamTree outreach coordinator. “We had a great turnout and tons of positive feedback from attendees.”

When asked if DreamTree will be carrying the event forward in future years, Loy said, “Yes, we plan to keep the event under our leadership and to continue to work with other youth-focused nonprofits in Taos to share proceeds from the event.”

To contact DreamTree, call (575) 758-9595.