Henderson’s holiday mission for teens

By Haylee Winger
For Whitecourt resident Kelsey Henderson, the holiday season has become a time to focus on
giving back—especially to a group often overlooked during Christmas charity efforts: teenagers.
Her mission began with a simple observation and has grown into a heartfelt annual commitment.
Henderson says her inspiration came after watching local businesses challenge one another to
donate to the Whitecourt Christmas Hamper through the yearly Facebook challenge on the
RE/MAX Whitecourt page. “I loved what local companies did by challenging others for
donations for our local hamper, but I couldn’t help but notice that teen gifts seemed sparse
compared to the littles. So, I decided I would do my best to take on the big kids and try to spoil
them too!”
What began as a small personal initiative has now grown into a cherished annual tradition for
Henderson. This year marks her third season collecting donations specifically for teens, an effort
she continues independently of the official hamper committee.
For Henderson, the motivation runs deep. Her love of Christmas and the memories that shaped
her childhood drives her commitment to ensure every young person experiences the same magic
she once felt. “Growing up, Christmas was my absolute favourite and still is. The efforts my
parents put into making it so amazing, was truly the best. I just want every kid, big or small to
feel that magic.”
To gather support, Henderson focuses on simply sharing her efforts with the community. “I just
try to share what I do, and if someone can help, that’s amazing. If people can’t donate that is
never a problem! Even having them spread the word helps immensely! It’s the thought that
counts.”
Most donations she receives come in the form of cash, which allows her to shop for popular,
high-demand items that teens will appreciate. “Most people donate cash, and I go try to get
brand name things that are popular. Teen gifts can be pricier, so I make it my mission to find the
deals and get as much as I can! Other businesses have generously donated their swag and
products. It is truly so beyond appreciated. We have such an amazing community.”
Henderson notes that donations for younger children typically outnumber those for teens, which
only strengthens her commitment to ensuring every teen feels included.
Because teens can be one of the hardest age groups to shop for, she works hard to advocate for
items that feel special. “I do try to advocate for brand name items. Most people say something is
better than nothing- and it’s true, don’t get me wrong. But sadly, the world we live in, is
surrounded by ‘brand name’. So, I try for quality, over quantity.”
Community support for Henderson’s teen-focused efforts has continued to grow. “I cannot thank
our community enough. Each year we grow more and more, and I’m truly so proud to be apart
of this community. We all come together to make sure everyone can feel the love and that’s pretty

special.” Each year, more people contribute, and new supporters join alongside returning donors,
helping her initiative expand steadily.
One of Henderson’s favorite moments comes at the end of each collection period, when she can
see all the donations laid out and witness the impact of the community’s generosity. Last year,
she was able to fill two tables with teen gifts, and each year she hopes to do even more.
Supporting local families through the Christmas Hamper is deeply meaningful to her, and she
describes the experience as pure bliss, taking great joy in helping others and watching the
community come together to make a difference.
And for anyone considering donating, she offers heartfelt encouragement. “Never worry that you
cannot donate. Spreading the word is just as successful as donating! The hamper also needs
volunteers for wrapping the gifts. Or collecting gifts. There are so many ways to help without it
costing a thing! The true beauty of Christmas, and communities coming together!”
As she steps into her third year of collecting teen gifts, Henderson continues to shine a light on
an age group often overshadowed during the holidays—ensuring every teen in Whitecourt can
feel the warmth and magic of Christmas.