Christmas Cheer Board's new Executive Director tasked with finding their new home

The long-time director of Winnipeg's largest Christmas hampers drive is retiring after more than 50 years of service.

Kai Madsen has been working with the Christmas Cheer Board since 1969 and is a proud lover of Christmas. The Cheer Board was initially started by churches across the city to give hampers and toys to World War I widows and orphans. 

“It’s been a wonderful journey, a large part of my life and I owe them a debt of gratitude. I’ve seen the best of everybody and when you think well of people, good things happen," Madsen says in a statement.

As Executive Director, he was nicknamed the "chief elf", but now, Madsen is passing on the candy cane. Cheer Board supporter Shawna Bell has big shoes to fill.

"Having the last name Bell was my first big kook," she says laughing, referring to the bells on elves' shoes. "I have had such a personal commitment to the Cheer Board for such a long, long time now so this is exciting. It is a great opportunity to do some good work for folks in the city." 

Bell hopes to do Madsen justice. 

While she may not have five decades to devote to the cause, Bell previously served on the board, including leadership roles. Many conversations have been, and will, take place between Madsen and Bell as the Christmas season approaches, but Bell's first task is a big one, 40,000 square feet to be exact.

"My first job, my biggest job, is finding us a new home."

Space is always an issue for the board as they do not need to rent a facility all year long, and Bell is hoping to find something with longevity. With an average of 17,000 hampers to pack, they certainly need the room. Those who may have a space available or are looking to volunteer can contact Bell directly at executivedirector@cheerboard.ca.