On December 14, Ipswich High School Interact held the 15th annual Jingle Walk community-building fundraiser. This event, begun in 2009 by the then ‘Ipswich Rotary Club,’ has been organized and sponsored by Ipswich Interact since 2011. This much anticipated annual event has become a town tradition which aims to connect the community and lift everyone’s spirits during the holiday season!
The Jingle Bell Walk begins with Santa’s arrival at town wharf and ends at Town Hall where the celebrants enter ‘Santa’s Village’ of food, games, face painting, cookie decorating, and photos with Santa. The Ipswich High School String Quartet provided entertainment. A major part of the fundraiser involves raffles where baskets and gift cards, generously donated by local businesses, are given out.
"We are extremely grateful to our sponsors and donors" said Interact President Jenny White. "This event would not be possible without the incredible support of these local businesses, which consistently give back to our community."
White added that "This year, approximately 300 people joined us for the festivities, many participating in the Jingle Bell Walk. A walk led by Interact elves began at the Ipswich Town Wharf, where Santa arrived on a firetruck, and ended at Town Hall where the main event took place. We are gratified by the tremendous support we receive from the community."
With the proceeds from this year’s fundraiser, the Interact Club will donate to Partners In Development in Ipswich. Unwrapped toys also were collected for North Shore Kids.
Finally, White stressed that "We want to thank our main cast of Bob Gillis (Santa), Cory Binette (Buddy the Elf), and Evan Morris (The Grinch), along with the Interact elves and Rotary volunteers. We also appreciate the invaluable support of the Ipswich Police and Fire departments, and the Ipswich Public Schools."