For the past three years, Commerce Clinic has consistently hosted Elf on the Shelf for those who wanted to participate. This year, we were excited to expand it to all of Commerce. The experience has brought a great deal of joy not only to those participating, but also to those who simply enjoy watching the videos.
Some may not know that Elf on the Shelf at Commerce originally began with TBS, thanks to our former coordinator, Maribel Perez-Silva (now our IS QI), back when I was a TBS Specialist myself. From the beginning, Elf on the Shelf helped bring our team together and created a fun, positive atmosphere. It encouraged collaboration, while decorating each other’s cubicles and office. That sense of connection and fun is exactly what I hoped to achieve by expanding Elf on the Shelf to the entire clinic—giving staff the opportunity to get to know one another better while having some fun along the way. Last year, staff asked if we could include all of Commerce, and I’m glad we were able to make that happen this year.
The daily videos featuring our elves—Penny, Ellerford, Twinkle, and Sparkle—have grown bigger than I ever imagined. None of this would be possible without the creativity, enthusiasm, and support of our Commerce staff. I’m continually impressed by the ideas they come up with and the camaraderie the elves have brought to Commerce. There are always staff willing to support those creating the elves’ magic, whether they are directly participating or not. As the shenanigans unfold, laughter is shared and connections are strengthened. The creativity seems endless, with themes ranging from scavenger hunts, the Polar Express, concerts, sporting events, Disney themes, game shows, and parties. Staff eagerly anticipate what the elves will do next, and many express how much joy the videos bring to their day. Can’t wait to see what Commerce Staff come up with next year with our Elves.
Have a Happy New Year!
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December is always a meaningful time at Penny Lane Centers, and this year our Commerce location was grateful for the opportunity to make the holiday season a little brighter for the youth and families we serve. Through the generosity and dedication of our team, we were able to contribute and gift several of our clients with holiday presents small gestures that carried a powerful message: they are seen, valued, and remembered.
For many youths, the holidays can be especially challenging. Understanding this, our team made it a priority to create moments of comfort, joy, and cultural connection. We intentionally included activities that encouraged creativity, togetherness, and celebration, helping youth feel a sense of belonging during a season that can otherwise feel isolating. One such moment included building gingerbread houses and homemade snowmen, an activity that brought smiles, laughter, and warmth to the space. As captured in the photo, we’re proud to share.
These efforts were made possible through the compassion and commitment of my team members, and I’d especially like to recognize Edith H, Yuri V, and Ignacio Z. for their dedication in making this holiday meaningful for the youth we serve. Their care, creativity, and willingness to go the extra mile helped ensure that each young person felt supported and remembered during this special time.
As we step into the new year, we remain committed to continuing this work with compassion, creativity, and care. We look forward to building more moments of connection, expanding our support, and ensuring that every young person we serve knows they are not forgotten during the holidays and throughout the year.
Grateful for the work and the people behind it.
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Our offices may have looked a little “extra” over the Holidays, but that’s just our way of spreading cheer. From twinkly lights to festive touches throughout Commerce and North Hills, the holiday spirit showed up to work this year. It was less about perfection and more about creating a space that felt joyful, welcoming, and full of heart—because a little holiday magic really does go a long way.
This effort came down to team culture and community. Cynthia led the way, and the rest of us happily stepped in as her holiday elves. It was truly a group effort, filled with laughs, creativity, and a shared love for making our spaces feel warm and inviting for everyone who walks through the door.
I wanted to give my humble opinion and give credit where credit is due. I have been working at Penny lane for 2 years and this has been my second holiday here and I feel so welcome working in the RSS program. Everyone here is very nice but what was very cheering and impresive was seeing all the decortations. It really made me feel joyful and really got me in the spirit of the holidays to see how amazing our decorated room looked. It really makes a difference to work in a place full of holiday warmth, laughter and peace. - Claudia Ramos, Penny Lane Centers
At the end of the day, these small moments of joy reflect who we are as a team. Creating environments that feel safe, celebratory, and full of care isn’t just seasonal—it’s part of how we show up for one another and for the families, youth, and community members we serve every day.
I hope everyone has a great start to 2026- Happy New Year!
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