The Giving Tree
Each holiday season, the PNRC, in cooperation with its Community Outreach Committee, brings warmth and generosity to the community through its Giving Tree program, a cherished initiative that connects local nonprofits with generous individuals and businesses to fulfill holiday wishes for children, seniors and families in need.
How it Works
The Giving Tree is a collaborative effort between PNRC member nonprofits and Giving Tree Ambassadors. Nonprofits submit wish lists for their clients, and Ambassadors help distribute tags to the community. Each tag represents a specific wish—often something as simple as a toy, warm clothing or a gift card.
In 2024, the program made a few changes. Nonprofits were paired with Ambassadors, who served as pickup locations for the donated gifts. All gifts were expected to be valued at no more than $50, with a preference for physical items over gift cards to encourage more personal giving.
A Tradition of Giving
The Giving Tree began as a modest effort by the Outreach Committee and has grown steadily each year.
In 2021, the program served 13 nonprofits across Butler County and northern Allegheny County, collecting over 600 donated gifts. By 2024, the program had grown even further, with 1,100 gifts collected for 16 nonprofits through the support of 20 Ambassador locations.
Local businesses and community members play a vital role by displaying or distributing tags that list specific wish requests from nonprofit clients. These tags are then matched with donors who purchase and return the gifts, ensuring that holiday joy reaches those who need it most.
2025 Program Timeline
- October 6: Deadline for nonprofits to apply
- October 10: Deadline for Ambassadors to apply
- October 10: Community Outreach Committee reviews applications
- October 13: Committee notifies approved nonprofits and requests wish lists
- October 26: Nonprofits submit Giving Tree tag wish lists to Committee
- November 7: Committee meets in person to prepare and distribute tags
- December 8: Last day to return gifts to Ambassadors
- December 8–12: Nonprofits pick up gifts from Ambassadors
Who Can Participate?
Nonprofits must be active PNRC members to apply. You must meet deadlines and follow guidelines, including the $50 maximum gift limit and the requirement that the first wish must be a physical item.
All community businesses may be Ambassadors, regardless of membership status.
A Community United by Compassion
The Giving Tree is more than just a holiday initiative—it’s a testament to the power of community, compassion and collaboration. Whether you’re a nonprofit seeking support or a neighbor looking to give back, your participation helps make the season brighter for those who need it most.
For more information, contact Beth Machine, Community Outreach Committee Chair, at pnrcoutreach@gmail.com or 724-934-9700.
Giving Tree in the News:
Giving Tree program to connect gifts — Butler Eagle, Oct. 19, 2022
Special thanks to our Gold Sponsors:
Business Directory / Member News / Events Calendar / Hot Member Deals / Job Postings / Contact Us / Join The Chamber