The Spirit of Giving: How Best Christmas Ever Changes Lives
In the heart of life's winter seasons, when families grapple with circumstances beyond their control, Best Christmas Ever (BCE) emerges as a beacon of hope. At BCE, the mission is heartfelt and clear: to serve families blindsided by tough times, wrapping them in a community’s embrace and providing a Christmas beyond their dreams.
The Heart of Best Christmas Ever: Don Liimatainen's Story
The vision of BCE began on a Christmas Eve with a dad battling Ulcerative Colitis in 2010. Looking at an empty Christmas tree, Minnesotan Don Liimatainen was overwhelmed by how he would explain to his young son that Santa might not be coming.
That night, a knock at the door revealed his mother and relatives, arms laden with gifts—a surprise that transformed what could have been their worst Christmas into the Best Christmas Ever.
From this single act of generosity, Don’s vision took root: to give not just gifts, but a transformative Christmas experience to families facing adversity.
Growth of Best Christmas Ever
From its humble beginnings of supporting just one family the next holiday season, BCE has burgeoned into an organization that now touches lives across half of the United States. The journey from that first Christmas to the present is marked by hundreds of stories, each one unique, yet bound by the common thread of hardship turned into joy.
Stories of Impact
Every family supported by BCE has a unique tale of hardship transformed into a celebration of community support. These are stories where unexpected hardships are met with even more unexpected acts of kindness.
The Synergy with Dormie Network Foundation
In partnership with the Dormie Network Foundation, BCE has amplified its impact. Since August 2022, this collaboration has raised over $83,800 through Stay and Play packages and Donated Memberships, directly fueling the magic BCE brings each year.
Behind the Scenes
At the heart of BCE's operations are the BCE Captains and a dedicated team that meticulously identifies families in need. Their process is one of diligence and care, ensuring that each family's experience is not just joyous but deeply personal and respectful of their journey.
With each year, the gift of BCE’s impact grows, with many of the organization’s staff and volunteers having also been recipients.
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, BCE aspires to reach every state, with a goal to support at least 100 families in each, fostering a legacy of generosity.
"We're in a two-year sprint for Best Christmas Forever Fund,” shares Don. When the Fund’s goal of $4M by 2025, annual interest will support each year’s giving and the principle will never be touched.
BCE's story is one of hope, community, and the profound impact of giving. If you are moved by the work of Best Christmas Ever, consider learning more about the Best Christmas Forever Fund, a sustainable initiative designed to extend the hand of support for many Christmases to come.
“Generosity inspires generosity. My biggest push for folks is to get off the sidelines—cheerful giving is a fun place to be.” -- Don Liimatainen
To become a part of this enduring story of generosity, visit bcemovement.org and see how your support can light up lives. You can also follow their journey and contribute directly to the Best Christmas Forever fund—a gift that keeps on giving, long into the future.