More Than Gifts: Giving Back With Santa’s Helpers

In this heartwarming episode of Secrets of Tomorrow’s Leaders, host Noah Morrow sits down with Sammi and Dillon Lutza, two of the co-chairs behind JCI Santa Clarita’s beloved annual tradition, Santa’s Helpers. Since 1999, this initiative has brought holiday joy to underserved children and families in the Santa Clarita Valley. Sammi and Dillon share the project’s rich history—from its humble beginnings as a doorstep gift delivery to its evolution into a vibrant community event now hosted at College of the Canyons. With a focus on creating a joyful experience and connecting families to vital resources, the Lutzas emphasize the deeper mission behind the toys: opportunity, dignity, and community connection.

Listeners will hear firsthand how the Lutzas and their fellow co-chair Brian Wisdom are working to make the 2025 event more impactful than ever, aiming to serve over 600 children and their families. They discuss the army of volunteers it takes to make it all happen, the role of local partnerships, and the importance of fostering leadership through service. Whether you’ve been part of Santa’s Helpers before or are curious about getting involved, this episode captures the spirit of giving and the power of community in action.
© 2020 JCI Santa Clarita