GCSC Seeks Volunteers and Community Vendors for Second Annual Holiday Help Fair

The Gary Community School Corporation (GCSC) is inviting volunteers, local businesses and community organizations to take part in its second annual Holiday Help Fair on Friday, December 18, 2026, at the Gary Public Library Main Branch.

Presented by GCSC’s Family and Community Engagement (F.A.C.E.) Department, this year’s fair will feature a festive Polar Express theme and connect families with holiday support and community resources. The event will include family activities in the library’s Makerspace, resource information and giveaways, and the redemption portion of GCSC’s Uniform Exchange Program. A sensory-friendly hour is planned from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.; the general event will run from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

“Community support helps us create a welcoming space where families can connect with resources, enjoy activities together and receive support during the holiday season,” said Crystal O’Brien, FACE Coordinator for the Gary Community School Corporation. “We invite local organizations and volunteers to join us in making this year’s fair meaningful for Gary families.”

Community organizations and vendors

Organizations are encouraged to host an informational table or provide resources, services, activities, or giveaways. GCSC is especially interested in partners offering support related to food access, housing, utilities, health and mental health, employment, literacy, youth programs, financial education, childcare, transportation and emergency family needs.

Interested organizations should submit the partner registration form by December 4, 2026. Final setup information will be shared with confirmed partners during the week of December 7.

Volunteer opportunities

Volunteers are needed to help with setup, registration, greeting families, activities, uniforms, food, vendor assistance, restocking and cleanup. Volunteer availability may include December 17 setup, event-day morning setup, event shifts, and cleanup on December 18. Volunteers will receive assignments and event-day instructions before the fair.

Sponsorship opportunities

Donations are also being accepted in support of this event. For more information on how to donate, email Chelsea Whittington at CWhittington@Garycsc.k12.in.us.

To learn more, please contact any school FACE Liaison or the GCSC F.A.C.E. Department at info@garycsc.k12.in.us or (219)881-5407.

The Holiday Help Fair is part of GCSC’s ongoing work to strengthen connections between schools, families and community partners. 

About Gary Community School Corporation

Gary Community School Corporation serves students and families in Gary, Indiana, through a districtwide commitment to learning, family engagement and community partnership.