Charity, A Tree and A Candlelight Vigil; Join United Way NCA for La Soiree!

Nov 30, 2018

by United Way NCA

Just one day left before we unveil the beautiful Balsam Fir at La Soirée – A Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration! United Way of the National Capital Area and the Embassy of Canada are putting the finishing touches on what is sure to be a very special evening! Since its trek over a thousand miles away beginning in Nova Scotia across a stretch of wintry valleys and Bay of Fundy coastal towns through the streets of Washington DC, the Balsam Fir has safely arrived to its home at the Embassy of Canada symbolizing the intersection of community impact and the holiday season.

At 28 feet, our Balsam Fir had to be maneuvered into the embassy by means of a crane. Once inside, the team at the embassy used a genie to hoist the Fir up while it’s trunk was secured.

Year after year during the holidays, people of all backgrounds come together to demonstrate kindness when they choose to give, advocate or volunteer for the needs of their communities. Though the journey for our Balsam Fir will come to a close at La Soirée, the needs of our neighbors throughout the national capital area are ongoing. United Way NCA and its partners continue the journey to ensure that all low-income middle school students transition to high school, perform at grade level, and stay on track to succeed, that  each and every household has the means to live a healthy lifestyle, and that those living in our community have the tools to build a financially stable life.

As we light our Balsam Fir on Wednesday, December 5 at La Soirée, we will take a moment to honor President George H.W. Bush for his leadership and commitment to public service by paying tribute to his life and legacy during the Tree Lighting ceremony with a candlelight vigil. President Bush’s legacy is defined by his dedication to public service and his unwavering commitment to volunteerism and community involvement. And so it is fitting that we are reminded on this day that our mission is to continue to fight for the health, education and financial stability of every person in our community. Join the journey to LIVE UNITED!

Purchase tickets to join the journey.

Can’t attend? Donate today to help United Way NCA continue the journey.

Recent Posts

related post thumbnail
Sep 09, 2026

blog

Understanding Food Insecurity: Facts and Solutions

Despite the world producing enough food to sustain every human, food insecurity remains a troubling reality for millions. In the United States alone, more than 34 million people, including 9..
related post thumbnail
Aug 27, 2026

blog

United Way NCA's Stuff the Bus Provides 500 Backpacks for ALICE Families

No Student Should Start School Empty-Handed More than 70 volunteers packed 500 backpacks Monday, Aug. 17, for United Way of the National Capital Area’s (United Way NCA) 10th annual Stuff..
related post thumbnail
Aug 27, 2026

blog

Navy Federal and United Way NCA Gear Up Students

65 Backpacks, One Morning Employees at Navy Federal Credit Union partnered with United Way of the National Capital Area on Aug. 18 to stuff 65 backpacks ahead of the school..