Did you know that socks are the least donated item at shelters? An I&M employee does and that’s why, just in time for bitter cold temperatures, he is donating socks to a Fort Wayne organization helping homeless veterans.
Girardot rounded up nearly 600 pairs of socks for Fort Wayne organization Invisible Vets.
Kurt Girardot, Fleet Technician A in the Fort Wayne District, is donating 597 pairs of socks to Invisible Vets. It’s a non-profit organization that helps veterans who have “fallen through the cracks.” Girardot used a hobby of his to attract people to donate: an impressive holiday light display at his Fort Wayne area home.
“I’ve been creating light displays for 15 years and using new technology to make each display different and better than the year before,” said Girardot. “I also want to give back to the community because that’s the real reason for the holiday season. Helping those who need it, while putting a smile on people’s faces, all through holiday lights.”
This year’s display (video from Nov. 2021 below) used nearly 7,500 pixels, which are color-changeable lights wired together. Pixels are different because each light changes on its own, compared to LED lights which change by the whole strand.
Folks drove by the light display and donated socks in a bin at the end of the driveway, but people also sent socks in the mail to the Girardot’s along with money. He is thankful the community can enjoy the light display and give back.
“I’m just so grateful to those who came out and donated. One person donated 120 pairs of socks in just one night. Also, in one night we collected $105 and used that to purchase more socks,” said Girardot. “This is the first year at our new home and I can’t wait to watch the donations and community support grow.”
Girardot is already planning his elaborate holiday display for next year – which will be his 16th year creating the holiday show. He will start preparing for this year’s display in August with it going live after Thanksgiving.