Jean and Alvin Phillips wrap presents for Secret Christmas as members of Wood County Rotary, one of several organizations and clubs who partner with The Arc of the Mid Ohio Valley on the project. (Photo Provided)

PARKERSBURG — The Arc of the Mid-Ohio Valley is looking for public support for its annual Secret Christmas program.

The Arc supports people with intellectual, cognitive or related developmental disabilities. Participants in Secret Christmas are above the age for assistance from other community programs and have a financial need with little or no support from families to cover clothing, grooming, transportation and other social needs.

“Many participants live on fixed incomes or may not have family to be able to buy them a Christmas present for the holidays,” said Alexis Ullmann, program and activities coordinator of The Arc. “In the absence of the annual Secret Christmas program, numerous individuals would lack a gift to unwrap on Christmas morning.”

Volunteers are needed to help shop, donate or wrap gifts for adults and teens 13 and older, said Doug Hess, chief operating manager for The Arc.

Past community donations from individuals, clubs, businesses, churches and other organizations have supported 250 people a year receiving Christmas gifts.

“We are really lucky to be part of a community that bands together to make Christmas special for our family, neighbors and friends,” said Arc Executive Director Michelle Curtis. “With the help of the Marietta Welfare League, we are able to serve participants from Washington County, Ohio, for the second year. This truly reflects the Mid-Ohio Valley area.”

The PM Company’s Spirit of Giving and donation drives by Williamstown Bank and Parkersburg Catholic High School are among the efforts supporting this project.

A person can be sponsored with a $50 donation. The Arc will purchase and wrap the gifts with the assistance of volunteers at a “Wrap Party” on Dec. 2 at South Parkersburg Baptist Church.

Donors can request a wish list, purchase the gifts and bring them to The Arc office or encourage a club, church group, office or other organization to be a Secret Christmas sponsor.

“If you want to make your holiday season special, come join us to wrap gifts, share laughter, enjoy each other’s company and spread the Christmas spirit,” Ullmann said.

To get involved, contact Ullmann at 304-422-3151, ext. 114, or email alexis.ullmann@thearcmov.org. Sponsorship forms can be downloaded at thearcmov.org.