TEC’s SECRET ELVES SOCIETY

Mission:

Have you ever wanted to go undercover? Here is your chance to complete a secret mission to benefit children in TEC’s Early Intervention Program. Each child and their siblings have a tag with a want and a need. You, your family, church, organization, or business can shop for a specific child or choose to send a donation or sponsor gifts.

  • What?

    The Secret Elves Society is a holiday program operated by Tennessee Educational Cooperative. The mission of this program is to provide Christmas gifts and needed items to children in need. These children are participants in our Early Intervention Program, which serves littles from birth to age 5, who have significant delays or disabilities. We also provide gifts for any minor sibling living in the home.

  • Why?

    Many families are struggling this holiday season. Many of our families need a little extra help and love this year. The cost of living is high for everyone, but these families face extra costs with medical care, therapies, and special supplies for their disabled child(ren). We just want to bring laughter and smiles to their faces, and to alleviate a burden for these families who already carry so much.

  • How?

    Each participant has a gift tag. This tag lists a want and a need. The majority will list a toy item and then clothing, diapers, or similar needs. Elves are not required to purchase every item, but we ask that you get as close to the wish item as possible. Elves can request a tag(s) to purchase items directly. This tag can be mailed, emailed, or picked up from the TEC office. Tags will be available by November 7, 2025. After you purchase gifts, we ask that you bring them (unwrapped) to our TEC office (we will meet you elsewhere if requested. Our office team ensures all wishes are met, and then we will pack the gifts for delivery. These gifts are given to the parents/guardians, and they can give them to the child(ren) in the manner they deem appropriate.

    If you are unable to purchase for an entire child, we accept monetary donations of any amount. Every dollar helps! Donations can be brought to our office, made via our website, or mailed to TEC 1432 East Lee Highway, Loudon, TN 37774 cc Secret Elves.

    If you need proof of donation for tax purposes, please let us know.

  • When?

    Monetary donations are accepted at any time. Tags with wishes will be available by November 7th. Gifts must be turned in by December 10th.

FAQs:

  • How much does it cost to fully sponsor a child? The average cost to purchase the wish and need of a child is around $100.

  • I can’t shop for a child because I can’t afford all the gifts, or I am unable. Can I still help? Of course! Monetary donations of any amount are greatly appreciated.

  • Do I wrap the gifts? Please don’t wrap gifts. On the application, parents can check if they want gifts wrapped or not. If they do, our team will take care of that. Some families have special paper, or do not wrap from “Santa.

  • Can I sponsor multiple children? Yes! It is always great if you can sponsor multiple children. This is a wonderful opportunity for churches, youth groups, gal pals, clubs, businesses, or organizations to come together for the greater good.

  • What if I can’t find something requested? There are several options here. 1. Find something similar. 2. Let us know at the office, and we will search. 3. Send a gift card or donation to cover that item when it can be found.

  • Do these families receive gifts from other entities? No. We have families sign a contract promising not to sign up for other toy drives or benefits. We want to make sure that things and distributions are fair.

  • I have a particular age or gender of child I would like to shop for. Can I make a request? Yes. Many of our elves use this as an experience to teach their children and/or grandchildren about giving. Often, those kids like to shop for kids “like” them. Just send that request when you contact us.

  • Are used items acceptable? At this time, we ask that you purchase new items.

  • How do I know items won’t be returned? We mark out each tag. For clothes, we do ask that you send a gift receipt just in case sizes don’t work.

  • How do I get a tag? Just email janahackworth@tn-edu or call 865-458-8900.

  • Where do I donate? Monetary donations can be made online @tn-edu.org, dropped off at the office, or mailed to 1432 East Lee Hwy, Loudon, TN 37774 Tag purchases can be dropped off at the office, or we will come to you.

  • I would like to claim this as a tax deduction. Is that possible? Yes. Please let us know when you send your donation, and we will give you documentation.

  • What is the timeline? Monetary donations are accepted at any time.

  • Tags will be ready by November 7th. Gifts need to be in by December 10th.