15th Annual NoHo FUMC Tree Lot

In The Mood for Holiday Giving

by Tara Varilek

There’s something about the Christmas spirit that puts me in the mood to give whether it be monetarily, physically, or spiritually. I am motivated to donate to worthy causes, to think more about others and less about myself, and to be more compassionate to the less fortunate. The sentiment is present year round, but its call is much more pronounced as Christmas approaches.

Although there are numerous opportunities to actively participate in giving all year round, my favorite project comes around at the end of the year. With the help and generosity of volunteers, what is normally an unassuming lawn in between the First United Methodist Church and Tujunga Ave. in North Hollywood transforms into a verdant, aromatic, evergreen forest otherwise known as -- the Christmas Tree Lot.

While it may appear to be just another Christmas tree lot with wreaths, mistletoe, and Noble and Douglas Firs, some very important characteristics differentiate the North Hollywood First United Methodist Church Tree Lot from many others.

It’s an all-volunteer run operation.
Net proceeds go to a multitude of programs and agencies dedicated to helping those in need.
As a complimentary service, trees can be secured to the roofs of customer’s vehicles at their request.
For a distance-based fee, trees can be delivered.

As an oasis from the daily, urban rat race, the tree lot helps transport visitors into a relaxing and festive space where good tidings and Christmas trees abound. People on both sides of the hill, people from the local neighborhood, people from the drive-thru Starbucks down the street come as individuals, friends, and families each looking for something uniquely their own.

Whether it’s a couple looking for their first Christmas tree, a family in search of the best branches for hanging their ornaments, or someone looking for the perfectly imperfect Charlie Brown tree, it’s a special gift to partake in their joy and enthusiasm.

As a volunteer, welcoming and communing with the wide range of visitors brings me a profound sense of fulfillment. During my several years of working the tree lot, I have had the privilege of sharing in many special Christmas moments with Christians and non-Christians, the young and the elderly, the rich and the poor, first-timers and return shoppers. I enjoy hearing fondly told stories of previous experiences from visitors and volunteers alike, and I especially like to see customer’s happy faces as we secure their purchase to the roof of their car. This will be the fifteenth year that the tree lot has opened its gates to the public, and I enthusiastically look forward to another season serving whoever walks in.