Volunteers, family and friends gathered at White Park Sunday evening to honor the memory of Ace Garate and to carry on his charitable spirit.
The second annual AceItUp Tree Lighting and Toy Drive took place at the corner of Sixth and Merchant all to support foster children served by St. Francis Community Services. The event is named for 13-year-old Ace Garate who passed away last May following a car accident in Branson, Mo.
Ace’s father Carlos Garate says the event is the exact kind of event that Ace would have been involved in if he were still here. He says his hope is that the tree will be a beacon of comfort and the holiday spirit for all who pass by it this holiday season.
In addition to the lights and ornaments adorning the tree in White Park were red ribbons placed on it by local residents to honor the memories of departed loved ones. Ace’s mother Amy Garate says this was a very important aspect of the tree for their family because it truly embodies Ace’s caring nature.
As volunteers worked to collect donations of toys, money and gift cards from passersby Sunday evening, a lengthy list of local singers helped to spread some holiday cheer filling the night air with classic holiday tunes in both Spanish and English. The list of performers included close friends and family of the Garate’s.
If you were unable to donate during Sunday’s event you can still do so either online at AceItUp19.com or on the AceItUp Facebook page.
Photos by Tagan Trahoon/KVOE News
{gallery}12-6-20 AceItUp Tree Lighting and Toy Drive{/gallery}
