On Saturday, December 14, 2024, the Rotary Club of Aruba continued its cherished tradition of bringing joy to the community by organizing the annual Christmas lunch for the clients of Sonrisa. Sonrisa provides a nurturing environment for individuals with mental impairment, and this festive event brought together warmth, music, and shared moments of happiness. This heartwarming tradition, which brings festive cheer and togetherness, marked a decade of service, smiles, and unforgettable moments.
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| This year’s Christmas lunch held special significance as it marked the 10th consecutive year of the Rotary Club of Aruba partnering with Sonrisa to bring joy and holiday warmth to its clients. For a decade, this cherished event has exemplified the Rotary spirit of “Service Above Self,” creating a day of happiness, connection, and care for a very special part of our community. The event took place at the Sonrisa Center, which was beautifully decorated for the holidays to set the tone for the celebration. Rotary members and Sonrisa staff welcomed clients with open arms, ensuring they felt the warmth and joy that come with the holiday season. |
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A delicious lunch was served, prepared with love and attention to detail, making sure everyone had a moment to enjoy a festive meal in great company. The Rotary Club team and volunteers worked together to ensure the day ran smoothly and was filled with laughter, meaningful interactions, and heartfelt smiles.
The celebration reached its high point with lively music by Aguinaldo "Flor di Pasco", who added a vibrant touch of Christmas cheer. Clients and volunteers clapped, sang, and danced to traditional tunes, creating an atmosphere of joy and unity that perfectly honored the 10-year milestone. |
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| Reflecting on a decade of this tradition, the Rotary Club of Aruba is incredibly proud of the enduring bond formed with the Sonrisa community. What started as a single act of kindness has grown into a cornerstone event, deeply rooted in love, care, and a shared commitment to inclusion. The Rotary Club of Aruba extends sincere gratitude to Sonrisa, the dedicated staff, volunteers, and generous supporters who have contributed to the success of this event year after year. Together, we have shown the lasting impact of compassion and community spirit. A special thank you to our faithful caterer, "Taste Buds Cafe", who has been part of this event since the beginning. Together, we continue to live out the Rotary motto, “Service Above Self,” ensuring that every member of our community feels included and valued, especially during this season of giving. |
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As we celebrate this 10-year milestone, we are reminded of the power of consistency and the value of human connection. The Christmas lunch at Sonrisa is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of life, inclusion, and the joy of giving back.
Thank you to everyone who made this year’s 10th-anniversary celebration a success. Here’s to many more years of bringing smiles, love, and holiday cheer to our community.
For more pictures, check out our photo album: https://rotaryclubaruba.org/PhotoAlbums/2024-christmas-lunch-at-sonrisa
