Christmas trees are an iconic part of the holidays. We sing about them in Christmas carols and gather around them on Christmas morning. And for the last 20 years, they’ve been a symbol of hope and joy for people with disabilities and families in need.

Pride, Inc., started the Celebration of Trees in 2001 with the goal of giving back to the community.

Now in its 20th year, the program has raised more than $391,000 and provided Christmas trees to more than 1,375 families in need.

Local businesses sponsor and decorate the trees. The trees are then donated to families in need. Proceeds help provide clothing, food, transportation, medication, housing and more to people with disabilities. This year, 73 area businesses
sponsored trees.

“Capital Electric Cooperative(CEC) is a proud participant in the Celebration of Trees,” says CEC General Manager Paul Fitterer. “The holiday spirit is all about giving, gratitude and grace. Thanks to Pride, Inc., and the participating businesses, families in need are able to enjoy the timeless tradition of a Christmas tree, and people with disabilities have access to the services and support they need.”

CEC has participated in the Celebration of Trees for the past 15 years. This year, CEC employees decorated the co-op’s tree with red bulbs, colorful car ornaments, a racetrack and Hot Wheels cars. The co-op hopes the tree will be delivered to a family with young children.

You can see CEC’s tree on display at the Bismarck Event Center during the Holiday Food & Wine Experience on Dec. 2, and the Pride of Dakota Showcase on Dec. 3-5. While you’re there, don’t forget to vote for your favorite tree! The top five trees
will be featured in the Bismarck Tribune's Celebrate.

For more information on the Celebration of Trees, visit www.prideinc.org/sub-nav/(link is external) celebration-trees.