Moraine Park Technical College’s Diversity Relations Office raised funds for ASTOP Sexual Abuse Center by decorating a holiday tree for the Festival of Trees at THELMA Sadoff Center for the Arts. The event was December 9th and 10th, and all who attended could vote for their favorite decorated tree!

The event showcased local nonprofits that decorated a unique tree for display around the THELMA facility. The decorated trees were listed for silent auction bidding and funds raised supported the nonprofit.

The Diversity Relations tree, Candy Cane Lane, was one of over 35 trees decorated for the event! In support of MPTC’s mission of growing minds, businesses, and communities through innovative learning experiences, attendees were to encouraged to view our tree and envision students from all ages and walks of life choosing their path/lane to learn a trade, earn a degree, obtain a certificate, participate in training or simply gain knowledge. White signified an opportunity for a new beginning, a blank page of a notebook that waits to be written upon. Red signified the chance to take action to pursue a professional or personal passion with energy and confidence.

“Moraine Park’s students and employees are active in the community and dedicated to volunteerism. I am proud to work for a organization that is so involved and to work on a team that rises to the occasion when there is a need or want in the community,” said Leslie Laster, director of diversity, accessibility and support services.