“May your days be merry and bright, and may all your Christmases be white.” —Irving Berlin

The Bright Start team helped make that wish come true earlier this month at the 16th Annual Bright Start Client Christmas Party. The celebration brought holiday cheer to clients and their families and demonstrated the program’s deep commitment to supporting new moms and their children.

Families enjoyed a full lineup of festive activities, including photos with Santa, a Christmas feast, ornament-making, and playing with toys from the Toy Lending Library of South Dakota. Before heading home, each family received a special Christmas gift from the Bright Start team.

This year’s party, held at First United Methodist Church, welcomed 61 clients and their families. Assistant Program Director Kathy Schneider said the success of the event reflected the heart of the entire team.

“Watching our nurses, our administrative assistant, our therapist and even their family members come together with so much heart is inspiring,” said Kathy. “Seeing families light up when they see their nurse, and children creating crafts with their parents—it’s all beautiful.”

Nurse Home Visitor Amanda Tilberg had several of her clients attend the party, and said she values every relationship she builds.

“Honestly, every day I feel blessed,” said Amanda. “I love my clients. I feel like they’re all meant for me.”

For many families, Bright Start has been a source of guidance and reassurance. Giselle Wilbur joined the program early in her pregnancy. She said the support she’s received from Amanda and the Bright Start program has been life-changing.

“I had no idea how to be a mom—but we’re getting there now,” said Giselle. “Every time Amanda comes over, she answers every question. She even checks on me when we’re not scheduled.”

Another of Amanda’s clients, Brianna Kvernevig, described their relationship as both practical and personal.

“I feel like I always have somebody I can reach out to and ask questions. If I need anything—support or resources—she’s there. It’s kind of like a built-in best friend.”

Last week, Brianna graduated from Southeast Technical College with a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) degree. Before graduation, she participated in a special pinning ceremony marking the transition from student to nurse. Faculty or family typically pin the student, but Brianna asked Amanda to pin her instead.

“You always hope that what you do matters,” Amanda said. “I started with Brianna the day she delivered, and since then she joined the LPN program, graduated, and is going to attend RN school next. To know I made a difference—and to watch her come full circle—is an honor.”

The bond between Amanda and her clients reflects the heart of Bright Start’s mission—walking alongside families as they grow. Families experienced that same care and attention as they explored other resources at the party, including the Toy Lending Library of South Dakota. Executive Director Anelis Coscioni shared how the resource strengthens early learning.

“We have more than 1,800 toy boxes in 21 locations,” said Anelis. “Families can borrow toys for ages zero to five, and many of our boxes highlight the skills children can learn.”

For families who cannot purchase new toys regularly, Kathy said the library has become an invaluable partner. Amanda also added, “It’s one thing to tell families about a resource, but being able to introduce them to it in real time is awesome.”

From children discovering new toys to families feeling fully supported, the Christmas party captured the spirit of the season—bringing joy, connection, and the kind of moments that make life a little more merry and a little more bright.

Enjoy more photos from the party below!