A Forest of Joy Grows at the T. Boone Pickens Hospice Center

What began as a simple holiday idea has blossomed into a powerful Christmas story unfolding right here in Dallas.

On December 17, the T. Boone Pickens Hospice Center was filled with extra light, color and comfort thanks to the donation of 40 festively decorated Christmas trees through an initiative now known as Trees of Joy. Each tree arrived as a symbol of compassion for patients and families spending the holidays facing serious illness.

The idea first took root at the Westin Dallas Park Central, where Director of Sales and Marketing Betty Jones partnered with Faith Presbyterian Hospice Center to accomplish one heartfelt goal: to bring warmth and Christmas joy to those who need it most. The original plan was modest. Just 10 decorated trees, thoughtfully prepared by volunteers, meant to brighten hallways and patient rooms during a difficult season.

The response quickly grew beyond anything imagined.

With support pouring in from hotel associates, clients, vendors and community members, the effort expanded into what can only be described as a “Forest of Joy.” More than 40 fully decorated trees were lovingly prepared and donated, each one reflecting the generosity and care of the people behind it.

The impact reached far beyond the hospice center walls. At the hotel, guests and visitors stopped daily to admire the trees, take photos and ask about the story behind them. Many shared how moved they were by the display, saying they had never seen a holiday campaign quite like it.

For hospice families, the trees offered moments of beauty, comfort and normalcy during a season that can be especially heavy. For everyone involved, the experience served as a reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can create extraordinary ripples.

Because of the overwhelming response, Trees of Joy is now planned as an annual Dallas tradition, with hopes of reaching even more families in the years to come. What started as a simple volunteer effort has grown into a lasting reminder of what is possible when a community comes together with love at the center.

This Christmas, a forest truly did grow…rooted in compassion and shared joy.

by Wendy Van Bemmel