April 2026 Spreading Holiday Magic and Smiles to Kids Who Need It Most.  NEWS FROM THE NORTH POLE  Jeff Gelder A Message from our Founder...
Greetings Friends of Children’s Holiday Magic Project,
As we begin the second quarter of 2026, I am very excited for what's to come. We've added a new permanent character to the family of Jeffery and Santa's Tale, Jingles the Elf. He was loved by so many in our 2025 story that we just had to keep him around. And, we have another wonderful story written by Phillip Tanzilo titled, Aurora's Light, A Story of Seeing the Good. More exciting news to come on that soon! We are also excited to announce that the same talented voice-over actor who voices Jingles has joined our Board of Directors as Director of Creative Development. Please read all about him below and/or on our website.
Regarding this year's custom recording, song and story submissions are open! Please get the details on our submissions page and let those creative juices flow!
There’s a lot of exciting news to share in this issue, so be sure to scroll down and catch up on everything happening at CHMP!
As always, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness, your generosity, and your belief in what we do to bring smiles to the kids' faces every year. There’s still time to get involved in the 2026 project: volunteer, join our Board, make a donation, and help us spread the word. Every effort helps us bring a little more light, laughter, and love to children who need it most.
With heartfelt gratitude,
May you always find Joy, Peace, and a little Holiday Magic! Save the Date Spring Hike for Holiday Magic 7 Bridges!  Scroll down for pics of our 2025 Hike for Holiday Magic 7-Bridges!  Jingles' Holiday Hijinx & Memorable Moments by Dan Foster - voice of Jingles the Elf There are moments in life that quietly reshape your understanding of purpose, and for me, bringing Jingles the Elf to life for the 2025 Children’s Holiday Magic Project, has been one of those moments. Jingles isn’t your typical North Pole helper. As Santa’s tech-savvy, video game-playing support elf and one of the newest members of the Holiday Magic cast, Jingles bridges timeless tradition with the modern (gaming) world, helping ensure that messages of kindness, joy, and connection reach children no matter where they are. Stepping into this role of one small elf was more than a creative opportunity; it was an invitation to be part of something bigger. Through storytelling, Jingles becomes a companion to children spending the holidays in hospitals across the globe. In spaces that can often feel isolating, these stories create a sense of wonder-an escape into a world where magic is real, kindness matters, and no one is forgotten. Lending my voice to that experience was both an honor and a responsibility I carry with immense gratitude. What struck me most was how powerful a simple message can be. The story, “Jingles' Holiday Jingle-Bell Hijinx", written by Phillip Tanzilo, wasn’t just about holiday cheer; it was about the values that sustain us all year long. The importance of being kind, even when it’s difficult. The beauty of staying connected to one another, especially when circumstances or distance make that challenging. And the reminder to be present, to truly see and appreciate the people around us. Even the smallest act can brighten someone’s day, and through this journey, through Jingles, I’ve seen just how true that is. A kind word, a shared laugh, a moment of imagination-these seemingly small gestures can create ripples of light in someone’s life, particularly during the holidays when emotions run deep. Being part of the Children’s Holiday Magic Project has reaffirmed something I believe wholeheartedly: magic isn’t just something we create for others, it’s something we awaken within ourselves when we choose compassion, generosity, and kindness from the bottom of our hearts. To every child who listened, smiled, or found a moment of comfort in Jingles’ story-thank you. You are the reason the magic exists. And to Jeff Gelder, and everyone who makes the Children’s Holiday Magic Project possible, thank you for reminding the world that even in the most challenging circumstances, the spirit of the holidays can shine brightly-one story, one voice, and one small act of kindness at a time.  Voice Artist and Board Member Dan Foster A Few Photos from our 2025 7-Bridges Hikes!          Thanks to all of our Generous and Valued Sponsors!      Meet Our Newest Board Member Dan Foster   Jingles the Elf Dan Foster – Actor / Voice Artist Dan Foster was born in San Francisco and raised in the Bay Area’s vibrant arts community, surrounded by theater. He is an accomplished actor and voice artist with a strong passion for narrative-driven storytelling. In addition to his professional work, Dan has long been dedicated to community service, with a focus on public safety outreach and accessibility for visually impaired audiences. His service includes involvement with the California Highway Patrol’s Explorer Program, the City of Northridge, the greater San Fernando Valley, and the Los Angeles Radio Reading Service (LARRS). Now based in San Diego, Dan is proud to support the Children’s Holiday Magic Project. He is also an advocate for voice actors with disabilities and a supporter of his LGBTQIA+ colleagues through QueerVox. In his free time, Dan enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, exploring new destinations with his husband Jay, and spending time with his four-legged companion, Max. Watch highlights of our, An Evening of Holiday Magic 2025 Gala Fundraiser, in the short video below. Pics from An Evening of Holiday Magic Gala 2025  Tony Azar - Teri Wilder - Kim Blake Santa and Elves in the background!  Mark Goodson  Phillip Tanzilo and Audrey Steidl Upcoming Events - SAVE THE DATES (copy and put on refrigerator)
Check our website for additional 2026 events. We're always coming up with new, fun, ideas!   OUR MISSION: To brighten the lives of children of all ages through the gift of songs and stories, and provide talent the opportunity to be heard and contribute worldwide. JOIN OUR TEAM Want to be part of something truly special? We'd absolutely love to have you join our mission! Whether you can spare some time, share your unique talents, lend your expertise, or contribute financially, every bit helps us spread more joy. Check out the details below to see how you can jump in and make a difference or click here and let us know about your interest.  We want to welcome our newest members to the CHMP Board of Directors, Audrey Steidl, and Dan Foster. Click here to learn more about them and the rest of our board.  (CHMP) is a tax exempt 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation
Children's Holiday Magic Project, Inc. |
