PROCESS: The programs will naturally take place at a variety of locations and settings. When possible the space is ideally set up like a living room. Otherwise, the space is comfortable with ample room to move around. At Christmas there will be an undecorated tree. Santa gives the children special ornaments to put on the tree while they are there. Santa interacts with the children as he tells stories, sings and involves the kids in fun activities. The children experience being loved and appreciated as well as learn important lessons about kindness, helpfulness, responsibility, tolerance and love. Audience participation is encouraged as Santa wants to get know the children as they get to know him better. At Christmas we will sing familiar Christmas carols. At other times special songs will acknowledge the season at the time of the visit. Depending on the nature and length of the visit you will have the opportunity to take pictures with Santa. Usually people can take their own pictures…there will be a Polaroid camera available, for a reasonable fee, in case someone does not have a camera. If Santa brings the sleigh there will need to be a large enough access to the room. Details will be sent. SPONSORING REQUIREMENTS: Open space large enough for your group to comfortably sit on the floor or move around. · Adequate electrical outlets and good lighting · Free of distracting noises like, motors, generators, construction, crowds, loud talking from onlookers etc. · Table for displaying items · Well ventilated or comfortable room temperature · Assistant to help with the logistics of setting up and running the program · Adequate monitors to assist with supervising children LOGISTICS: When possible, Santa will arrive on the afternoon before a morning or midday program. For late afternoon or evening events Santa will arrive that morning or, by midday. This is necessary in order for him to set up and prepare. For larger events there is usually a helper traveling with Santa. This is in addition to the assistance needed from the sponsoring group. A standard size folding table is needed for Santa to display special items that are available for sale as part of our fundraising efforts. The gathering room should be available for setting up well in advance of the event when possible. The program time is determined in advance. However, there will be time before and after the actual visit with Santa for other activities related to the visit. (usually about a half an hour on each end). Assistance will be needed upon completion of the program for packing and loading the equipment and items used in the program. Cleanup of the space is the responsibility of the sponsor. Financial Matters: The Santa Project is supported by sponsors, grants, fundraising efforts, donations, and by entrance fees when appropriate. Rates for "A Visit with Santa" are determined by the nature of the sponsoring group, size of the group, length of the event, and travel distance. A rate schedule will be sent upon inquiry. Souvenir and Fundraising Items: Santa has a book/tape set and other items for sale which will available at the event. Sponsoring agencies or corporations may wish to purchase these (at a discount rate) as gifts for the children. Promotional Materials: Fliers, news releases and other promotional material is available by request. News interviews with Santa can also be arranged. It is the responsibility of the sponsor to advertise or promote the event if it is open to the public. Otherwise, your event is probably private and you will naturally set up the logistics of the visit.