About Us
Our Story
From a group of friends giving beyond their families to a nationwide movement serving communities for over 25 years.
How We Started
The Twelve Days of Christmas, Inc. (“Twelve Days”) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in Houston, Texas in 1999. The organization was originally created to support families in need during the Christmas season by providing essential items, including food, clothing, shoes, toiletries, books and toys. Since its inception, it has evolved into a national network of philanthropic women, with nine chapters each dedicated to serving their local communities in Houston, TX; Oakland, CA; New York, NY; Washington, DC; Atlanta, GA; Detroit, MI; Chicago, IL; Philadelphia, PA; and Loudoun County, VA.
This journey began with mother-daughter co-founders Gayla and Donya Gardner, who invited friends and community partners to join them in making a difference as the new millennium approached. Those early efforts laid the foundation for more than 26 years of sustained service. The organization is deeply grateful to all past and present members — local and national — who have been part of this rewarding journey.
The mission of Twelve Days began with personal holiday gatherings that evolved into the original Parties with a Purpose. Each event was inspired by The Twelve Days of Christmas carol, in which guests were invited to donate items to less fortunate families. The delivery of gifts to families brought tremendous joy and gratitude, fueling their continued commitment to service.
Today, the charity continues its ongoing assistance of families facing hardship, with a focus on challenges that disproportionately impact children, including food insecurity, underemployment, single-parent or grandparent-led households, and families affected by incarceration, illness, disability, or disaster. The Twelve Days of Christmas, Inc., distinguishes itself through a hands-on approach to service: creating meaningful personal connections, offering encouragement, and fostering hope for brighter futures.
A cornerstone of this mission is READ: The Ultimate Gift Program, a literacy initiative that places books directly into the hands and homes of children. This program is built on the belief that books are lasting gifts that continue to inspire learning and imagination for generations. Through increased access to reading materials, Twelve Days aims to strengthen confidence, creativity, and long-term academic success.
The members of Twelve Days of Christmas, Inc., invite you to join their sisterhood of service devoted to uplifting families and children through the gift of giving.
25+
Years Serving
9
U.S. Chapters
1k+
Families Supported
200+
Our Members
OUR MISSION
Dedicated to Community-Powered Impact
Our mission is to share our blessings with others through collective effort, charitable activities, and community involvement.
We are committed to remembering the true spirit of Christmas throughout the year and making a difference with the gift of giving.
Committed to a Legacy of Giving
A Tradition That Keeps Growing
See how our chapters bring the mission to life across the U.S.
Committed to Spreading Joy All Year Long
For over 25 years, we’ve brought hope to families through holiday giving, chapter-led community support, and literacy initiatives that create lasting change—beyond the season.
- Delivering holiday joy through gifts and essentials for children and families.
- Strengthening communities with chapter-led service and local partnerships.
- Growing brighter futures through READ—books, storytelling, and literacy support.
Gayla & Donya Gardner
Co-Founders
MOMENTS THAT MATTER
Impact That Lasts Beyond the Holidays
These moments are why we do the work—joy shared, communities lifted, and families supported with dignity.
Be Part of the Story.
Join a legacy of community-driven giving—through programs, chapters, and support that reaches families when it matters most.
- See how our chapters bring the mission to life across the U.S.
Common Questions About Twelve Days of Christmas Inc.
How does Twelve Days of Christmas, Inc. help families?
We support families through holiday giving, chapter-led community outreach, and literacy initiatives—delivering support with dignity and care.
Can I donate to a specific chapter?
Yes, you can donate to a specific chapter. To do so, go to the Home Page and click on the “Chapter” tab at the top. From there, scroll through the list and select the chapter you wish to support. Once the chapter’s page opens, you’ll see a red “Donate” button in the upper right corner – this button directs your donation to the selected chapter.
Where does my donation go?
A. Donations made through our Home Page goes directly to support national operation that over see the website, filing of taxes and new and existing chapter support.
Chapter donations support on going chapter programs and their operations.
B. Donations made through our Home Page support national operations that ensure the organization’s overall effectiveness and compliance. These funds are allocated toward website infrastructure, regulatory requirements such as tax filings, and the development and support of both new and existing chapters. Chapter-directed donations are restricted to local use and directly fund chapter-level programing, outreach initiatives, and operational needs. This structure ensures that the resources are managed responsibly while maximizing impact at both the national and local levels.
How are families selected to receive support?
Families are referred by trusted partners such as local schools, churches, and community organizations. We prioritize those facing the greatest challenges-including financial hardship, single- parent or grandparent led households, and experiences with homelessness, illness, unemployment – to ensure support reaches those who need it most.
How can my company become a sponsor or partner?
The Twelve Days of Christmas, Inc. welcomes sponsorships and partnerships through financial contributions, goods, or services that support our programs. To get involved at the national level or with a local chapter, please email 12daysinc@gmail.com and indicate your preference. Your inquiry will be directed to the appropriate team.