Volunteer Highlight: Meet Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus

Meet Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus!

The first time Rolf Larson came to UGM-TC as Santa Claus, there were only three children to enjoy his signature red suit, white beard and hearty laugh. That was in 1997. This year, he delighted over 50 girls and boys at our children's morning Christmas celebration.

In the past 25 years, Rolf and his wife, Gay (also known as Mrs. Claus), have missed only one Christmas at UGM-TC — and that was during the pandemic. In fact, the Larsons even plan their own family celebrations around the Mission’s schedule!

One Christmas in particular sums up why the Larsons are so eager to share holiday joy at the Mission. Rolf recalls, “There was one man who had two little children with him. The children came running to the tree in their pajamas. They were so excited. And the little boy looked up at his dad and said, ‘See, Dad? I told you Santa would come!’”

The Larsons, who are also Master Gardeners who serve at UGM-TC, say there are plenty of opportunities here to lend a hand, but Christmas is a special time for giving back. Gay says, “When you help kids who have lost everything, when you see their joy, it makes you appreciate what you have.”

Rolf wholeheartedly agrees. “There’s something about Christmas here that you’ll remember the rest of your life. Just come and spend one hour with us!”