Our Story
The Secret Sleigh Project was born out of a mother's realization that traditional holiday experiences simply weren't built for children with complex medical needs.
Inspired by Lily
Founder Sarah Kordis started the Secret Sleigh Project after experiencing the heartache of her own daughter, Lily, being unable to visit Santa. The crowds, the lines, and the unpredictable exposure to illness made a simple mall visit too dangerous for a medically fragile child.
Sarah realized that countless other families were facing the same quiet exclusion. The holiday season is meant to be a time of wonder and inclusion, yet the most vulnerable children are often left out.
She decided that if these children couldn't go to Santa, Santa needed to come to them. And so, the Secret Sleigh Project was created to bring safe, private, and deeply personal visits directly into their homes.
Our Philosophy
Dignity First
We approach every family with respect and joy, not pity. These children are vibrant, wonderful kids who deserve a magical celebration just like anyone else.
Absolute Safety
Our volunteers understand the importance of health protocols. We bring the visit into the safety of the child's own controlled environment or facilitate virtual visits.
Secular Magic
We focus on the secular joy of Santa and the holiday spirit, ensuring our visits are welcoming and inclusive for families of any background.
Community Driven
We are entirely powered by dedicated volunteers—Santas, Mrs. Clauses, and helpers—who donate their time to create these irreplaceable memories.