Community tradition marks more than 20 years of giving
Thrive Behavioral Health hosted its annual Winter Carnival & Gift Event on Dec. 10 at its Warwick headquarters. The long-running community tradition, supported by Greenwood Credit Union, brought holiday gifts, activities and festive cheer to 175 kids and families from across Kent County.
The event, now more than 20 years strong, originated when Thrive clinicians identified families struggling to afford holiday gifts. What began as a small, staff-led initiative has grown into one of Thrive’s most anticipated programs. Greenwood Credit Union has proudly partnered in the effort for about 15 years.
This year, kids received personalized holiday gifts including Legos, Minecraft sets, arts and crafts supplies, sports gear, Roblox toys, board games, books, Play-Doh and action figures. Families also enjoyed a full indoor winter carnival featuring a Sweet Shop filled with cookies and candy, a Grinch vs. Snowman snowball fight, antler toss, pin the carrot on the snowman, winter-themed arts and crafts, a videogame room and a special visit from Santa.
“Our staff created this event to make sure every child we serve feels supported, celebrated and cared for during the holidays,” said Dawn Allen, president and CEO of Thrive Behavioral Health. “It’s inspiring to see how this program has grown and how deeply Greenwood Credit Union and our community continue to invest in the well-being of Rhode Island families.”
“Greenwood Credit Union is proud to support Thrive Behavioral Health and the meaningful impact it provides on the local community. Thrive’s annual toy drive is part of its mission to help heal its younger clients. Greenwood is honored to help bring joy to the families Thrive serves,” said Frederick Reinhardt, president and CEO of Greenwood Credit Union.
Thrive Behavioral Health is Rhode Island’s leading provider of comprehensive mental health and substance-use disorder services and one of the state’s eight Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics. Thrive offers a comprehensive range of evidence-based, personalized services to children, families and adults who have been impacted by mental illness, addiction or trauma.