Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of CHS employees, many children in need awoke on Christmas morning with bright eyes and smiles as they scanned under the Christmas tree for presents.

These children, many who otherwise would have spent Christmas empty-handed, received games, toys, and warm winter clothing, which were distributed to families by Neighbors Inc., a South St. Paul social service agency.

"A few coworkers surprised me by decorating my office for Christmas, which included a four-foot tall Santa that sings and dances," says Julie Streit, controller, Country Hedging, "They did something nice for me so I thought we could pay it forward to someone else. So we put Santa on a cart and if he visited you, you could make a donation to Neighbors Inc., then move him to the next person of your choice."

Several employees from Country Hedging and CHS Capital participated, raising more than $200, which was used to purchase gift cards for families in need.