EXCELSIOR SPRINGS, Mo. — The holiday season is underway in Excelsior Springs, and resident Diane Carrel is hoping to give back to those in need by hosting a free doll giveaway on Friday, Nov. 22, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Excelsior Springs Museum downtown.
Diane explained she began purchasing and collecting dolls six months ago because she never had any girls in her family. “I have three grandsons and never got to purchase dolls,” she said. As she began collecting them, she realized she was “having a lot of fun with it.”
Every time Diane walked into a store or shopped online, she would purchase a new doll. “I just saw one and picked it up,” she said with a smile.
Although her efforts started as something she did for her own enjoyment, Diane soon realized that after purchasing the dolls, she could use this opportunity to give back. “People are scared and hurting right now, and I just want to help and to do something for those that need it most, especially single parents that are struggling in today’s economy,” she said.
This heartfelt effort, according to Diane, is deeper than the satisfaction of purchasing the dolls. She said she has empathy for those who have fallen into hard times, and she feels a strong desire to help others in the community. During the giveaway, all she hopes for is to “see one mom smile for a few moments, because I know a lot of them are not smiling at home.” She added, “If I can make somebody smile for a brief period, then I just want to do it.”
Ultimately, Diane decided to host the giveaway in downtown Excelsior Springs to make the event as successful as possible. As she began thinking of places to host it, she noted that many venues would charge her to set up the event. Because she has been an active participant on the Excelsior Springs Museum Committee, she spoke to Museum Director Kathy Duncan, who graciously accepted her proposal and offered the space for the giveaway.
Thus far, Diane has collected around 80 dolls to give away free of charge to those in need. The collection offers a diverse selection, from Barbies to baby dolls, and includes characters such as Anna and Elsa from the popular Disney movie Frozen, as well as Moana, Belle from Beauty and the Beast, Strawberry Shortcake, styling dolls, baby dolls, and China dolls.
She reiterated that collecting the dolls has been an act of sheer joy. “If I can just make somebody happy for a brief period of time, then that’s it. That’s all I want out of this giveaway,” she said.
In a world where kindness can feel like a rarity, Diane Carell is ensuring that hope, and a few dolls, are within reach, not only for children in the Excelsior Springs community but also for parents who are struggling to stay afloat in an unpredictable economy. She added that there are no requirements for those interested in picking up a doll for their children.
For those interested in coming to the event, Diane said she will be at the Excelsior Springs Museum on November 22 from 1 to 4 p.m. and hopes to give away each doll to any family in need this holiday season.
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