Dearborn Festival of Trees Kicks Off Nov. 19

The Festival of Trees returns to Dearborn this month, and organizers are preparing for another evening of wowing the community, and raising funds for the Children's Hospital of Michigan Foundation.

Every year, hundreds of people from Dearborn and beyond come out to lend their time, support and money to the Festival of Trees. Christmas trees, gingerbread houses, wreaths and stockings are custom decorated and showcased in the , and are available for purchase and gifting.

This year's event runs Nov. 20-27, with a preview party held on Nov. 19, community tree-lighting ceremony and sing-along on Nov. 22, and Brunch With Santa on Nov. 26.

The Festival Preview Party Gala on November 19 will be hosted by WXYZ-TV anchor JoAnne Purtan, and will include live entertainment, a strolling dinner and silent auction.

Theresa Diefenbach, Coordinator for the Festival of Trees is excited about this year's upcoming events, but reiterated that it's about much more than pretty lights and decorations.

"This is about continuing to help research the causes and cures of childhood diseases through the Children's Hospital of Michigan Foundation," Diefenbach explained.

The foundation's mission is to support the health care needs of children by raising charitable support for patient care, medical education, research and prevention of diseases, and child advocacy. The foundation continues its research and mission with the help of the Evergreen Endowment Fund, created to generate funds received from the Festival of Trees. The fund provides financial resources for pediatric research projects.

Over $12.5 million has been raised as of this year for the fund–a fact the Children's Hospital of Michigan Foundation is thrilled about.

"Everyone at the foundation is extremely proud to celebrate with the entire Festival of Trees family for the 27 years of excellence in dedication to advancing vital pediatric research and improving the lives of children in Michigan and around the world," said Cameron Hosner, president and CEO of the foundation.

Diefenbach says that the funds could not have been raised if it weren't for the support of residents of Dearborn and surrounding communities who have donated countless hours to making the event a success.

This year, more volunteers are needed. The only requirement is that they be over the age of 16–and ready to spread holiday cheer.

"Everyone is welcome to come support us and there is a place for everyone," she said.

Diefenbach found her place in the program first as a volunteer assistant and now as event coordinator through a personal tie of her own. Her neighbor's baby was diagnosed with a debilitating disease at birth. Doctors gave her three months to live, but under the care of the Children's Hospital, she lived a full life until age nine.

Diefenbach's passion for the program is fueled by her love of helping children live the best life they possibly can. Her passion is shared by the hundreds of volunteers who give their time and efforts to make the Festival of Trees a success. Diefenbach says this program depends on people who have a passion for helping children.

"This network of people is like my family," she said, "and I  want more people to join my family."

To get involved, contact Jean Senkowski by email at Jeanfot10@gmail.com, or by phone at 734-595-0277.

Tickets for the Festival of Trees are $5 for adults and $2 for children. Tickets for the Preview Gala are $75 for adults and $25 for children. Tickets for Brunch with Santa are $25 for adults and $20 for children.

Learn more about the Festival of Trees and purchase tickets at www.fot.org.