With 2021 underway, it might seem like the time for looking back is over. But Catholic Charities is still a little stuck in December’s Comfort & Joy.
The month-long virtual experience presented by McCormick & Company garnered almost 28,000 visits to comfortandjoy2020.org. Among more than a dozen uniquely produced videos, nearly 2,000 viewers watched the Midweek Music series, a free, virtual mini-concert from a different local standout group or artist, shared every Wednesday in the month.
“We are thrilled with our month long Comfort & Joy campaign,” said Catholic Charities Executive Director William J. McCarthy Jr. “Thanks to our partners McCormick & Company, Harkins Builders, and Domino Sugar, our gift to the community was well received. COVID-19 has taken a toll on every facet of our lives, so we wanted to consciously and freely share the feeling of togetherness and joy with our neighbors even if it was through such small tokens as a cookie recipe or mini-concert.”
Cookie Jar Friday, sponsored by Domino Sugar, shared simple recipes created just for Comfort & Joy. Sunday Reflections provided a more centering moment for subscribers and visitors. The daily virtual experience also included Gift Tag Tuesday, sponsored by Harkins Builders, where visitors were able to share in the joy of giving by seeing the impact it has on our neighbors.
Spreading the spirit
The whole month was intended as a gift – a free way for neighbors to feel the spirit of the season from the safety of their homes. As it turns out, community partners and collaborators felt some, too.
“To hear we were one of the most-watched videos during the Comfort & Joy campaign is an honor,” said Morgan State University Choir Director Eric Conway, D.MA. “We always enjoy performing for supporters of Catholic Charities and although this year did not resemble any of our past appearances, it was a treat to once again share our voices. As 2021 gets underway, the Morgan State University choir prays everyone stays safe and well during the ongoing pandemic, and not to forget the transformative nature of live music in our society.”
Comfort & Joy made no request for donations, but neighbors were extraordinarily generous, donating more than $100,000 in sponsorship and individual gifts, plus presents for neighbors in need served by Catholic Charities.