We're fortunate to have so many schools embrace the spirit of the season.

Among them is Glenbow Elementary School.

For over 10 years, their students and staff have enjoyed a rich tradition of holiday giving through its Holiday Bingo in support of the Cochrane Activettes' hamper program.

During the first two weeks of December, they contribute nonperishable food that’s placed underneath a decorated tree located near the main entrance of the school.

Each class receives a bingo sheet that lists items needed by the Activettes. When students contribute, they get to hang an ornament on that tree.

As of today, that tree is packed with ornaments. Below, the contributions overflow.

Long-time grade 4 teacher Christy Williams says they receive the same robust response each year.

“It's really neat, because not all our students celebrate Christmas but ask to take part,” she says. “It's not necessarily a Christmas tradition, it's about the act of giving. It's a wonderful thing for the students to be involved in.”

School secretary Carmen Hodges was so moved by the words of a grade 4 student who helped arrange the food under the tree that she wrote it down.

"Oh, Mrs. Hodges, this makes me feel so happy for the people who need it. It makes my heart feel so joyful.”

While the nonperishables are given to the Activettes, they know food banks help each other and believe both the Nakoda and veterans food banks may also benefit.

Another long-time tradition at Glenbow is a staff gift exchange.

Each member is given a name and selects a gift that they think matches the recipient’s personality.

“We get to see what somebody purchased for us, laugh, giggle, have that joyful spirit, and then we pass them on to Activettes to be given to children or youth in the town,” says Williams. “So, the spirit of giving keeps being paid forward.”

This year, over 30 gifts were passed along to the Activettes.

"To me, it's just another example of what this time of year is all about, that it's not really about getting but it's about the joy of thinking of others, then passing it on and doing something for somebody else as well. I love that tradition."

Several staff members, though, do get a keepsake from the exchange.

“Some staff members have written poems or little notes to that teacher so they can keep that for themselves and pass on the gift to somebody in the community," explains Hodges.

Williams has taught at Glenbow for 20 years, and she’s witnessed the community's tremendous growth. Through it all, she believes Cochrane hasn’t lost its warmth and gives a shout-out to all the schools and businesses for their generosity.

“It's such a caring community. There's so much that’s going on. It really brings joy. It's wonderful."

Holiday bingo carda Glenbow student expresses how much joy they experience by giving to the Holiday Bingo at Glenbow Elementary School.