By DREW WINCHESTER

dwinchester@breezenewspapers.com

The Aubuchon Team of Companies will host their annual Helping Hands for the Holidays celebration next Monday at their Club Square headquarters, an event to kick off the holiday season and inspire the community to donate to several local charities.

Open to the public, Helping Hands for the Holidays is an “old fashioned” Christmas celebration.

Food and drinks are provided by the Aubuchon Team, while caroling, a tree lighting ceremony and a visit from Santa Claus get the kids ready to open presents on Christmas morning.

“We want this to be a fun event to kick off Christmas,” said Diane Van Arsdale, director of marketing for Team Aubuchon.

Entering its 13th year, Helping Hands focuses its attention on providing much- needed aid to three area charities.

Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southwest Florida, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southwest Florida and Builders Care of Lee County all benefit from the fund-raising generosity.

Van Arsdale said Team Aubuchon averages about $10,000 worth of donations each year.

“They are doing some fabulous things in the community,” she said of the charities. “These funds do make a difference.”

The fun kicks off on Monday, Nov 21, at 5:30 p.m.

The tree lighting ceremony starts at 6:30 p.m. and Santa Claus is expected to make his appearance not long after, according to Van Arsdale.

Food is being donated by Bubba’s Roadhouse and the Twisted Conch.

Donations are encouraged but not required. Van Arsdale said its all about celebrating the holidays and the community spirit.

“Come out, enjoy a bite to eat, some music and if you’re moved to donate, that’s okay,” she said.

For more information contact Team Aubuchon at 542-1075.