THOMASVILLE — The holidays are right around the corner, and for the 27th year, our community will celebrate the spirit of the season with the Archbold Foundation Tree of Lights. For many in South Georgia, it’s a tradition to honor and remember friends and loved ones by making contributions to the Archbold Foundation. The Tree of Lights tradition began as part of the effort to raise funds for the first Lewis Hall Singletary Oncology Center. For the past 17 years, contributions have benefited Hospice of Southwest Georgia.

Holiday decorations throughout the hospital, including the live tree that is displayed in the hospital’s main lobby, are provided by the Archbold Memorial Hospital Auxiliary. Donors, families and the community are invited to the lighting of the tree, a ceremony that heralds the beginning of the holiday season and offers a celebration of life and remembrance for attendees. A Hanukah menorah will also be lit to honor the tradition of the season.

This year’s ceremony will take place Monday at 6 p.m. in the lobby of John D. Archbold Memorial Hospital.

Guests will enjoy refreshments and music by the Thomas County Middle School Honors Chorus, followed by the anticipated arrival of Santa Claus. Gifts are acknowledged and cards for the Tree of Lights and Hanukkah are sent throughout December. A donation of $10 per individual honored is suggested, but gifts of any size are welcome. Individuals honored and family members of those remembered receive a special card letting them know a gift has been given.

For more information about the Archbold Foundation Tree of Lights or to make a donation, call 229-228-2924 or visit www.archboldfoundation.org.