The Gingerbread Project

How has this idea enhanced your club's operation, etc.?

Our COO, Thomas Preuml donated his first gingerbread house display in 1993 to M.D. Anderson Children’s Cancer Hospital in honor of a family member who was undergoing treatment. The smiles on the faces of the children with cancer who watched him set up the display 29 years ago are the reason he has continued building gingerbread houses throughout the years. Since becoming COO at the Houston Racquet Club, the concept now known as the Gingerbread Project benefitting MD Anderson’s Child Life Program has catapulted to a whole new level, drawing support from the entire membership community throughout the year with various events leading up to the grand unveiling of Mr. Preuml’s latest creation.

How was this idea implemented, and what have been the club members' reactions?

Gaining the attention of both members and non-members alike, we are met with great joy and anticipation each year during the holiday season because of the combined efforts of the many activities held to promote this great cause. 2022 marks the highest total dollar amount donated in a single year, where a whopping $100,431.00 check was presented to MD Anderson! To date, the HRC community has donated nearly $0.5M from donations accumulated via our Facebook link, in-person and mailed checks, our annual Gingerbread Mix & Mingle, and many other departmental events designed to raise awareness and generate financial support. A special podcast was recorded this year, sharing member and staff testimonials, which continue to build onto the uniqueness of the Gingerbread Project, leading us closer to the ultimate goal of donating $1M.