Annual ‘Meet Santa’ tradition turns community center into holiday hub

The John J. Byrne Community Center was transformed into an enchanting winter wonderland last Saturday, to kick off the holiday season.

Meet Santa, an annual tradition hosted by the center, once again took center stage, with the community invited to the newly opened center to meet Santa Claus, pose for photos and receive gifts from him.

There was plenty for parents to do as well, with many local small businesses setting up shop in the lobby.

“The reason why we do this every year is because we want to give back to the community, and we want the community to know that we exist and are here as a resource for them,” said Monica Mena, a small business owner who worked with the center to put the event together.

“I grew up in Uniondale, and I never knew we had a community center until I was older,” Mena explained. “So now I felt obligated to make sure it’s in use to bring the kids together, have the families come together, and support small businesses and entrepreneurs, which I’m very big on.”

Mena helped secure space for six small businesses and entrepreneurs to set up booths. One of them was Humans Who Empower, created by Jen Paz, of Westbury, who started her business to empower creators and shine a light on the work they do.

“It feels good to be here with other creators, business owners and people who think outside the box,” said Paz. “I feel like I’m really here and connected to this. I’m honored and grateful.”

The event, described by David Greaves, the president of the community center, as a source of “joy and wonder” for local children, was a testament to Uniondale’s holiday and community spirit.

“I’m overwhelmed by the support for this event, and with seeing the community come out together and enjoying this festive occasion,” Greaves said. “I’m truly indebted to all the volunteers that participated in making it happen.”

There were about 35 volunteers, Greaves said, most of them members of the Long Island Community Soccer Club, a travel soccer club based in Uniondale.

Greaves emphasized the significance of the collaborative efforts of the local businesses and organizations that took part, saying they went above and beyond contributing resources — they “poured their hearts” into ensuring that everyone who attended felt the joy and warmth of the season. From games to holiday treats, each element of the event was intended to spread cheer and foster an atmosphere in which every visitor felt welcome.

Nevin Gomez, who brought his 8-year-old nephew, Noah, to meet Santa Claus, said, “This event is really cool. I like to see all the small businesses coming together and seeing them all have the opportunity to make sales. My nephew is loving it, too.”