The Santiagos know the value of example. In 1983, after the bad flooding in Alviso, this Sunnyvale couple began their yearly visit there as Mr. and Mrs. Santa, cheering the children who had lost most of what little they had. Over the years Joe and Judy added their own kids to the holiday trek and started giving out gifts. 29 years later, the 4 generations of Santiagos–now with a grandson as Santa–continue the tradition of giving. They give gifts, bring joy, and offer thousands of dollars in scholarships a year through their Santa Visits Alviso Foundation.
It’s a family thing. That’s my point. Years ago Joe and Judy set an example of giving of themselves to others, and four generations later that example continues to be passed on. This is a reminder to all of us parents: what we teach our children has the potential to affect countless others into the future long after we have left this world.