What began as G+A’s annual Christmas gift planning last fall, turned into my husband Gregg and I prayerfully reflecting on the challenges being faced by our country, our industry, our clients, and throughout God’s world. We knew He wanted us to give a very different gift this year – not a candle, or a bottle of sparkling cider – not even a delicious caramel apple! He wanted us to give a more important gift – the gift of ourselves. So in honor of our clients, each member of G+A’s family chose an organization that had a special meaning to them and joyfully and unselfishly gave of their presence… their time and the very talents and treasures God has so generously given to them!

And our giving of presence didn’t stop there. We’ve committed as a company and within our individual families to continue serving during the rest of 2010! Corporately we will support Agape Flights, an independent Christian ministry based in Venice – just a few miles from G+A’s Florida corporate office and Gregg’s and my home. Each associate will also be making regular gifts of their presence within their own communities on a regular basis and I invite you to continue checking our Web site often. Periodically we’ll be sharing updates on the special presence blessings they’ve been giving throughout the year.

Most of all, however, we hope that as you read our stories, you will hear God’s leading for you to do the same. What will YOU do? You too have “special presence” that God has given to you to give to another needy person. All you have to do is take the time. And we can assure you – while your presence is blessing others… YOU will be blessed! Finally, I hope you will share your presence story with one of our associates! It would be G+A’s honor to share in your giving journey.

May you be filled with God’s loving presence throughout the rest of 2010 and always.