For almost 35 years, the Sonoma County Secret Santa program has helped those in need by fulfilling Christmas wishes for toys, food, clothing, home repairs, healthcare, and much more. In 2022, with the help of community leaders, non-profits, businesses, and volunteers, nearly 27,000 gifts were given. Cannon, at 15 years old, was one of those volunteers.

While faced with his own unique life challenges due to a rare genetic condition, Cannon has been helping others during the holidays since he was 7 years old with his first homemade apple cider and cookies fundraising stand. "We started by dropping off money at the Secret Santa KZST radio marathon, but the true magic began when Cannon was inspired to adopt hearts and personally shop for gifts,” said Cannon’s mom, Amy. He then put on his favorite Christmas outfit and volunteered to pick up hundreds of gifts from businesses and delivering them to the program’s North Pole. “Cannon could see firsthand the impact he was making, and after his initial gift delivery, he looked over at me and said that his heart felt really warm. As his mom, nothing makes me more proud than to witness Cannon's kindness."

Over the last 9 years, Cannon has remarkably raised more than $15,000 for Secret Santa. When asked about a new fundraising goal for his 10th year, he responded with a big smile, "$10,000!" This is an incredible kid with a big ambition, and he needs your help. Please support Cannon by making a tax-deductible donation to fulfill Christmas wishes that will create holiday miracles for those who need them most.

"When I was 7, I started questioning the magic of Christmas. It was just me and Mom; there were nights when she fed me, but didn’t eat herself. She convinced me to write a letter to Santa: sure enough on Christmas day, there were toys waiting under the tree for me as well as a feast. That day I knew that Christmas magic was real. I’ve never stopped believing in that magic and it makes the Secret Santa program very near and dear to my heart." (Susan, Secret Santa recipient)

Thank you for your generosity to bring joy to others during the most wonderful time of the year. Merry Christmas! ❤️🌲🎁

(Dessert Alert: In appreciation of your support, one donor will be selected at random upon completion of the fundraiser to receive two of Amy’s delicious holiday desserts - one for you to enjoy and one to share. 🤗)

Cannon's 10th Annual Secret Santa Fundraiser

By Center for Volunteer & Nonprofit Leadership

Cannon's 10th Annual Secret Santa Fundraiser

This is an incredible kid with a big ambition, and he needs your help.