Our History

The Twelve Days of Christmas, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, celebrates 25+ years as a volunteer service organization committed to keeping the spirit of the holidays for less fortunate families. The organization originated from Gayla Gardner and her daughter Donya's reflection on the true essence of the Holiday Season. Recognizing the struggles some face during Christmas, they sought ways to make a positive impact. With twelve friends, they pioneered the concept of "parties with a purpose," hosting themed gatherings based on the "12 Days of Christmas" song. Guests were asked to bring donations, ranging from toys to toiletries. The collected items were distributed to six chosen families, sparking a spirit of joy and renewal that inspired further action.
The organization continues to grow and fulfill its mission of sharing our blessings. Donations directly serve the families in need. This organization has provided over 6,000 new toys under Christmas trees, over 1600 Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter meals, and over 1,000 children with backpacks, school supplies, and uniforms. 
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National Footprint. Local Impact.

This outstanding service organization is composed entirely of volunteers. It has nine chapters located in Houston, Oakland, Washington, D.C., Detroit, New York, Virginia, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Atlanta. Our members are a diverse group of distinguished achievers. They are community, business, and civic leaders, mentors, activists, and role models who work across various industries. We pride ourselves on our community involvement outside the organization, which helps maximize our effort to enrich the lives of others.

The Houston Chapter

EXECUTIVE BOARD
CO-FOUNDERS
Donya Gardner, Esq
Gayla Gardner

PRESIDENT
Marilyn Hunter

VICE PRESIDENT
Marva Raspberry, EdD
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TREASURER
Jennifer Warren

RECORDING SECRETARY
Valerie Mabin
FINANCIAL SECRETARY
Kidada Gilbert-Lewis, MD

CORRESPONDING SECRETARY
LaTreace Harrison

PARLIAMENTARIAN
Charlene Osborne, PhD

CHAPLAIN
Shwanda Warner

MEMBERS

Daphne Adams
​Michelle Bell
Nadia Bruner
Tawana Cadien
Cassandra Corley
Deandrea Dillard
Angela Fisher
Keisia Galmon
LaTreace Harrison
Demetria Johnson
​Tara Jones
​Timika Keller
Camille Little
​Jacqueline McKinney, MD
Stephanie Monarch
Kemi Nurudeen, MD
​Maxie Pollard
Venise Richardson
Joyce Rogers
Rhonda Sewell
Keisha Smith-Davis
Wendy Tilford
Sonya Vaden 
Nakeytta Watson
Giselle Wilson

SUSTAINERS

Sherise Curd
Wandell Hawkins
Betty Sanders, PhD
​Kimberly Silas
Aerin Smith
Tamla Wilson, DTh
​Aisha Young, Esq
​Talibah Young, Esq
Karen Gray-Gomez, MD 

Join Us!

Impact lives in your local community!

​A Note From the President

Reflecting on my incredible journey over the past ten years with the Houston Chapter of Twelve Days of Christmas, I recognize it as a profound experience marked by growth, leadership, and a steadfast commitment to community service. Having served two years as Financial Secretary and four years as Vice President, I have witnessed firsthand the impact our Chapter has made in underserved communities. It is an honor to lead a Chapter that embodies the spirit of philanthropy and service.

I am guided by the scripture 1 Peter 4:10: "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms." As I step into the role of President, I envision a future where our Chapter continues to rise to the challenges ahead, uplift communities, and create a lasting legacy that inspires future generations. I look forward to this journey with each of you, ready to embrace the future with open arms and a compassionate heart.

Warm Regards,
Marilyn Hunter
Houston Chapter President | 2025–2027

​Twelve Days Women Impacting, Inspiring,
​and Empowering Our Community