On Thursday, December 3, 2009, children identified by local charitable organizations will be driven to J.C. Penny's stores at the Boulevard, Meadows, and Galleria malls where, with the financial sponsorship personal assistance of local Rotarians and other volunteers, they'll shop for new clothing and shoes. Program Chairman Jim Hunt indicates that he expects between 250 and 300 children to participate in this year's program

After shopping the kids will be driven to UNLV where athletes and cheerleaders will engage in supervised sports activities with them, providing positive "big brother/big sister" influence and a good time for all those involved. Following the games, the children will gather in the Lied Auditorium for an inspirational talk by Coach Lon Kruger, of the UNLV Running Rebels, while enjoying a pizza luncheon and receiving an additional toy or gift. This is Coach Kruger's second appearance before the Santa Clothes kids since 2004. Others who've addressed the children over the years include former UNLV Football Coach John Robinson, Women's Basketball Coach Kathy Olivier, and Baseball Coach Buddy Gouldsmith, among others.

Since 1996 local Rotarians from the Las Vegas Area Clubs, under the leadership of the Rotary Club of Las Vegas, have offered the annual "gift of Christmas" to less fortunate children. According to Rotary President Karen Whisenhunt, "just one look at the smile on the face of any young person, UNLV athlete, Coach, or Rotarian will indicate that this traditional event is a WIN-WIN for all concerned."

For more information contact Jim Hunt: 702-498-7787 or Tom Krob at 702-498-2259

Volunteer Instructions

• Bring a  hand-held calculator to keep track of purchases
   

• No sales tax will be charged
   

• The $133 budget for each child is firm.
  In fairness to each child, each shopper should try to use the full amount, but must not exceed the limit.
   

• Sale prices will be applied. Choose items with zeal!
   

• No toys or accessories should be purchased.
  Each child will receive a toy at the pizza party.
   

• Mission is to provide NEEDED clothing.
  A pair of shoes and a jacket is a lot better than a big name shoe alone.
   

• The budget cannot be supplemented with personal funds.
  It is very important that each child have the same benefit on this special day.
   

• Be discreet at the register.
  We don't want the kids to compare their clothes as a contest.