Our History

Christmas Unlimited began in 1923 as the Mrs. Santa Claus Club, a group of volunteers who repaired toys, assembled puzzles, and collected donations for families in need. Initially serving 300 to 1,000 children annually, the organization grew to provide food and clothing as well as toys. In the early 1970s, it adopted the name Christmas Unlimited, and by the mid-1980s was serving 3,000 to 4,000 children each year.

In 1987, facing a shortage of volunteers and financial difficulties, the organization was revitalized under the leadership of Mickie Shepard and other dedicated community members. A new store-style distribution system allowed families to choose toys using vouchers. Despite a surge in demand that nearly bankrupted the organization in 1991, volunteers rallied through fundraising efforts, community partnerships, and expanded toy drives.

Over the years, Christmas Unlimited developed programs providing school supplies, gifts for children in protective environments, and stuffed animals for senior care facilities. By 2000, it had established a reserve of toys to better meet annual needs, with most distributed toys being new. The organization also endured years of frequent relocations before moving into its warehouse at 2204 E. Boulder on October 16, 2002, bringing its warehouse, office, and distribution center together under one roof.

Through decades of challenges and growth, thousands of volunteers have helped Christmas Unlimited serve tens of thousands of families across the Pikes Peak region. Its mission remains unchanged: “Helping children believe in the magic of Christmas, and adults in the kindness of the human spirit.”