Stillwater Tree of Remembrance

The holiday season is a time to remember those we love and celebrate the meaningful connections that shape our lives. Join us for the inaugural Stillwater Tree of Remembrance lighting ceremony on Sunday, December 6, at 5 p.m. to honor someone who has made a lasting impact on your life. Whether remembering a loved one who has passed or celebrating someone special who is still with us, we’ll come together to illuminate the tree in their honor.

• Date: Sunday, December 6, 2026

• Time: 5 p.m.

• Location: South side of the Stillwater Lift Bridge entrance at the tallest cedar tree

Make a Gift in Honor of Someone Special

Honor someone special by making a donation to Valley Outreach in their memory. Your gift helps provide food, clothing, housing support, and other essential services to local families.

When making your donation, you can:

• Add a dedication: In the donation form, select “Add a dedication to your donation” and enter the name of the person you’re honoring.

• Share the dedication: In the donation form, select “Send an email to the addressee” to notify someone that you made a gift in honor of a special person.

• See their name remembered: Click here to see a list of honored individuals

The fundraiser runs through December 31, 2026.

Inspired by Karly’s Tree of Lights

The Stillwater Tree of Remembrance is inspired by Karly’s Tree of Lights, an 11-year tradition honoring Karly’s caring spirit and her wish to help those in need. What began as a small tradition among family and friends has continued to grow each and every year.

During the holidays, Karly was especially concerned about children and others with special needs who might not have enough to eat. In the last couple of years of her life, she encouraged family and friends to give wherever they could. Her spirit lives on through her family, this tradition, and the many friends who have joined along the way.

A big thank you to the Swope family—Lois, Gregg, Leah, and their beloved pup, Zoe—for helping carry Karly’s legacy forward.

About Valley Outreach

Valley Outreach serves more than 31,000 people each year with nutritious food, quality clothing, and personalized support. Through compassion, collaboration, equity, kindness, and trust, they work to ensure everyone is treated with dignity and has a place to turn when they need help. Together with volunteers, donors, and community partners they're building a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

To learn more about Valley Outreach, check out their website https://valleyoutreachmn.org