Operation Holiday began in 2020 with the big hearts and even bigger ideas of Christy Kroos and Lindsay Gallinger’s kids, who recognized a need in the community and took the lead to make sure every child felt the magic of the season. Building on a grassroots effort started by Josh Jarvis, Christy and Lindsay stepped in to help bring the vision to life. What started in a garage with wish lists and gifts for about 300 local children has now grown into a full-scale holiday operation. Today, we use a warehouse to set up our very own gift workshop—where hundreds of volunteers come together to sort, wrap, and prepare gifts for over 1,000 kids across the Gallatin Valley. The heart of the project has grown too. Lindsay and Christy’s main objective has always been to spread joy and to encourage kids helping kids. That mission has taken root in the community, and we now partner with both local high schools—including dance teams, Leos, DECA, sports teams—as well as after-school programs, grade schools, and so much more. The joy is incredible—and contagious. What started as a kid-driven idea has become a beloved community tradition—rooted in generosity, family, and the shared belief that every child deserves to feel seen and celebrated during the holiday season.