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By Carey Reeder | Managing Editor

The Rotary Club of Chilton County raised $2,390 from proceeds collected at the Clanton Christmas Parade on Dec. 8. The club, who donates the funds raised to the Chilton County DHR, matched the amount to make a $4,780 donation. The donation will go towards purchasing Christmas gifts for foster children in Chilton County through the DHR Angel Tree Program.

The check was presented to DHR Director Marilyn Colson by Rotary Club members, Clanton Mayor Jeff Mims and Santa Claus on Dec. 15 at the Chilton County DHR office.

“I think (the parade) went wonderfully. We try to do something amazing for our community, and this is something near and dear to my heart just having a baby,” Rebekah Grindle, President of the Rotary Club of Chilton County, said. “I think donating to DHR is just a wonderful way to give to the children that need a little bit of happiness this time of year.”

The parade had around 150 participants in it this year, continuing its history of a high turnout rate. For a change, Grindle was able to watch the parade this year after helping with the set up the last several years. She said she enjoyed “sitting back and seeing what all our community can accomplish.”

“Having that many people participate, decorate and put all of the work that goes into the floats is absolutely amazing,” Grindle said. “I am very proud and thankful to be a part of such a great community.”

Rotary Club member Roger Yeargan played Santa Claus for the check presentation.