Home-grown Killington charity gives back

Dear Editor,
In 1986, a few friends and I threw a small dinner party and asked everyone invited to bring a toy, instead of wine or snacks, that we would donate to a local shelter.
On Saturday, Dec. 3, at The Foundry at Summit Pond, hundreds of friends and neighbors helped us celebrate the 30th anniversary of that small party, which is now known as Teddy Arbo’s Holiday Toy Party.
It was a night of wonderful music with Joey Leone, delicious food, laughter, holiday cheer and incredible generosity and giving.
Between Killington locals, weekenders, ski house member and friends from afar, we were able to raise $30,000, and collected a large rental truck full of toys that will be distributed to charities that aid families and children in and around the Killington area. These charities include the Open Door Mission, the Upper Valley Haven, the Rutland Women’s Network & Shelter, the Rutland County Parent-Child Center and Dodge House, which aids and assists homeless veterans.
I am writing to thank everyone who has supported our party over the last three decades and to thank the local businesses that donated fantastic prizes for our raffle and live auction. We are all very fortunate to have such generous local businesses in Killington who give of their time, services and merchandise each year.
Over the years we have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars and more toys than we could ever count. Each of these toys and donations has brought a smile to a child’s face on Christmas morning and helped a family in need get through the holiday season.
Everyone involved with our party would especially like to thank Mike Solimano and the Killington Resort, and Chris Karr and the staff at The Foundry at Summit Pond. The Killington Resort donated a Killington vacation package as the grand prize for our raffle and Mike Solimano himself auctioned off a Killington season pass during our auction. The Foundry staff was once again incredibly helpful and gracious as they have provided a home, and a wonderful meal, for our party over these many, many years.
I will never take for granted the limitless generosity and love that the Killington community shows towards those in need and I truly feel blessed to be a part of it.
A huge and heartfelt “thank you” to everyone who has supported our holiday party for the last three decades. I wish you and your families a happy, healthy and peaceful holiday season.
Sincerely,
Teddy Arbo, Killington