DENVER — Themed gift baskets are big at silent auctions. For Judy McNeil, they’re also a passion.
“We put a lot of love and creation into these baskets,” McNeil said. “It becomes our signature for the luncheon.”
McNeil had already been part of the Children’s Diabetes Foundation’s Guild for a decade when she volunteered to take over the baskets. In the 16 years since, her baskets have become legendary, going for top dollar every year at the foundation’s Spring Brass Ring Fundraiser.
“The money that we raise on this fundraiser goes to benefit the Children's Diabetes Foundation,” she said. “It promotes awareness and education for Type 1 diabetes.”
“We help families in need,” Guild President Lori Finch said. “We help them with supplies. We help them with rent if need be. We help them with all kinds of things.”
After a total of 26 years with The Guild, Finch says it’s clear McNeil's desire to help children goes beyond her elaborate gift baskets.
“She generously gives up her time,” Finch said. “She brings her life experiences, her compassion, her intellect to everything she does.”
Denver7 features a different Everyday Hero each week. To nominate a hero in your life, click here.
