Founded in 2017 by Ms. Lauren Laimon, the 4 Season Giving Tree has changed the lives of countless families across Maryland. The foundation supports families in need by providing them with donated furniture, pairing them with families who provide them with gently used clothes, and collecting donations that are used to provide children with school supplies. Additionally, volunteers can organize initiatives for specifically needed items and work as “elves” delivering items to those in need.

Compassion and service are two of the Xaverian values at Our Lady of Good Counsel’s which are central to this organization. This year-round foundation, is an approved service site for earning Xaverian student service hours, and promotes a sustainable n

etwork of support which is led by President and Founder, Ms. Lauren Laimon, and her daughter, Ava Laimon ‘27, Good Counsel Chapter Lead. According to Ms. Laimon, her “inspiration came from witnessing families in our community struggle during different times of the year—not just the holidays. I wanted to create something that offered support year-round, reflecting the changing needs of each season. The idea of a “giving tree” felt symbolic of growth, generosity, and rooted community care.”

Throughout the years, 4 Season Giving Tree has helped hundreds of families through service opportunities like seasonal drives, emergency support, and community events.  One event in the fall is the annual school supplies drive which helps children. “One of the most rewarding moments was seeing a child’s face light up when they received a backpack filled with school supplies they otherwise wouldn’t have had. It’s those small but powerful moments—when you know you’ve helped someone feel seen and supported—that make all the effort worthwhile,” says Ms. Laimon. 

Students have been central participants and partners in this organization by helping to organize donation drives, contribute to snack pantries, and contribute to the holiday giving program. Ava says, “One of the most popular volunteer efforts is organizing support for a family in need during the holiday season. In this role, students rally their networks—whether it’s a sports team, club, or friend group—to fulfill specific requests from families.”

The 4 Season Giving Tree has encouraged stronger connections to be formed between neighbors, and led to more students and volunteers stepping up to serve the community. “When people join forces with a shared purpose, they can create meaningful and lasting impact,” says Ava.  The impacts are directly helping disadvantaged families throughout the year in our communities. For example, the winter clothing drive gives families dependable resources that bring warmth, hope and dignity.

The foundation is composed of a board, team members  and volunteers. According to Ms. Lori Butler, Director and Treasurer, “4 Season has helped us meet essential needs

and made holidays brighter, allowing us to focus on what truly matters, being together.” All of these individuals have built and continue to contribute to the foundation. 

Students are always welcome to participate and share new ideas so new programs can be created to meet the needs in our community.  The 4 Season Giving Tree  inspires students to make a positive impact and work together through servicing the poor and/or marginalized, while even earning the required Xaverian service hours, through connecting with people around us. 

Ms. Laimon and Ava, thank you for leading this organization with such inspiring compassion and service. Your dedication has touched the lives of countless families across Maryland, and it is an honor for the Good Counsel community to play even a small role in this remarkable effort.