featured-image

Out for Delivery: Thunder, United Way Stuff Stockings of Joy

Out for Delivery: Thunder, United Way Stuff Stockings of Joy

by Jimmy Do | okcthunder.comPhotography by OKC ThunderHoliday Assist is presented by Cox Communications

These were not your typical Santa's helpers. In fact, these "elves" were tall, ranging in height from 6-foot-5 to almost seven feet. On a Saturday afternoon, Thunder players Anthony Morrow, Enes Kanter, Jerami Grant and Joffrey Lauvergne surprised volunteers to help stuff over 5,000 stockings as part of the United Way Stockings of Joy program. The first stop was at the retirement community of Trinity Gardens. Substituting for Jolly Old St. Nick, a beaming Kanter sauntered into the commons area bearing a boxful of packed holiday stockings. The unexpected visit brightened the day for the delighted residents on hand as the big man made the rounds handing out gifts, hugs and photo ops.

Meanwhile, Thunder Girls Jessica and Stephanie along with Thunder Drummers and the Storm Chasers dropped in at Special Care—a school providing early childhood education including boys and girls with special needs. With a dash of holiday bliss and surprises, the kids were treated with a unique experience filled with fun activities with the talented Thunder entertainers.

Working together, the Thunder Cares Foundation, Chesapeake volunteers, Thunder season ticket members along with the players, Rumble the Bison and the Thunder Girls were able to serve underprivileged children and the elderly by providing care packages and Thunder goodies. This was just another way for the Thunder to give back by spreading some holiday cheer in the local community.

Stockings of Joy: Dec. 21, 2016

Special Delivery. Thunder Girls Jessica and Stephanie along with Thunder Drummers and Storm Chasers make a surprise visit at Special Care—a school serving children with special needs.

Stockings of Joy: Dec. 20, 2016

Blue Christmas. 91-year-old Thunder faithful and crochet artist greets the gift-bearing Kanter.

Here comes Santa Kanter. Ambling down the aisle to a hero's welcome, Kanter lit up the room with his easy smile while hauling Thunder goodies for the residents.

Delivering holiday cheer. One-by-one, Kanter spends the afternoon handing out Thunder goodies and swapping pleasantries.

Smiles all around. Kanter greets residents with hearty handshakes and warm hugs.

Stockings of Joy: Dec. 10, 2016

Teamwork makes the dream work. Grant, Lauvergne and Morrow share a laugh or two while helping volunteers with the United Way Stockings of Joy program.

Enes the Menace. Laughs and smiles all around as Kanter shows off his Thunder holiday hat.

Team effort. (clockwise) Thunder Girls Kalyssa, Pilar, Kayle and Kim join in on the fun packing Thunder goodies.

Out for delivery. After spending time working with volunteers, Kanter and Grant haul stockings of joy ready to be delivered.