Summary
Organization name
Christmas Unlimited
other names
CU
1966
Tax id (EIN)
84-0567382
Category
Human Services
Organization Size
Medium Organization
Address
2204 E Boulder StreetColorado Springs, CO 80909
El Paso County, CO, US
Since 1923, Christmas Unlimited has been bringing joy, hope, and meaningful support to children and families throughout Colorado Springs and El Paso County. While our annual Holiday Toy Distribution is a cherished community tradition, our commitment extends throughout the year with programs that provide essential resources, community enrichment, encourage brighter futures, and help local families thrive in every season.
Testimonials
"If it weren't for Christmas Unlimited, my grandkids wouldn't have Christmas!!! Thank you!!!" - Julie B
"I have done this program a few years ago and the staff are friendly and the program is absolutely amazing, and I am so thankful for this program" - Melinda V.
"Last month we were the recipient of a very generous donation of school supplies from Christmas Unlimited. I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you on behalf of all of our schools that benefited from this donation. The variety of supplies was such that all grades, K-12, were able to receive something useful and needed." - Vicki Huffor, Woodland Park School District Re-2
Mission
Established in 1923, Christmas Unlimited is one of the pikes peak region’s oldest charities. Christmas Unlimited is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that serves families in the Pikes Peak region through multiple programs, most notably our holiday toy distribution program in December and other programs throughout the year. Christmas Unlimited works only with the family’s adults – enhancing their self-esteem, promoting family unity and empowering them as parents.
Background Statement
Christmas Unlimited began in 1923 as the Mrs. Santa Claus Club, a group of volunteers who repaired toys, assembled puzzles, and collected donations for families in need. Initially serving 300 to 1,000 children annually, the organization grew to provide food and clothing as well as toys. In the early 1970s, it adopted the name Christmas Unlimited, and by the mid-1980s was serving 3,000 to 4,000 children each year.
In 1987, facing a shortage of volunteers and financial difficulties, the organization was revitalized under the leadership of Mickie Shepard and other dedicated community members. A new store-style distribution system allowed families to choose toys using vouchers. Despite a surge in demand that nearly bankrupted the organization in 1991, volunteers rallied through fundraising efforts, community partnerships, and expanded toy drives.
Over the years, Christmas Unlimited developed programs providing school supplies, gifts for children in protective environments, and stuffed animals for senior care facilities. By 2000, it had established a reserve of toys to better meet annual needs, with most distributed toys being new. The organization also endured years of frequent relocations before moving into its warehouse at 2204 E. Boulder on October 16, 2002, bringing its warehouse, office, and distribution center together under one roof.
Through decades of challenges and growth, thousands of volunteers have helped Christmas Unlimited serve tens of thousands of families across the Pikes Peak region. Its mission remains unchanged: “Helping children believe in the magic of Christmas, and adults in the kindness of the human spirit.”
❝Helping children believe in the magic of Christmas, and adults in the kindness of the human spirit"
Media gallery
Organization Data
Colorado Springs, CO 80909