The Ceres Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Holiday Service Club Appreciation Mixer this year entitled "Building Community through Service," on Friday, Dec. 12 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Ceres Community Center.

Each year the Chamber hosts this special event to thank the service clubs and non-profit associations that selflessly contribute to the Ceres community throughout the year. Although admission is free to the public, the Chamber is seeking "new" blanket donations on behalf of the Ceres Partnership for Healthy Children. The blankets will be distributed to those in need just in time for the upcoming winter season.

"This annual mixer is not only a great opportunity to promote the work of the service clubs and non-profits in our area, but it's our way of connecting these organizations to citizens in Ceres who may be looking for ways to become more civically engaged in Ceres," said Ceres Chamber Vice President Helen Condit.

This year the Chamber is adding a special feature: a photo opportunity with Santa & Mrs. Claus. Parents are encouraged to bring their cameras or smart phones to snap pictures with their kids.

Last year, the Ceres Chamber used this venue to set the stage to identify an annual "Service Club of the Year." The winning organization will be recognized with an award during the Annual Installation and Awards Dinner on Friday, Jan. 30, 2015. The Ceres Lions Club received the first honor at the awards dinner this past January.

This event also plays host to a "Taste of Ceres" - a free buffet of food from local restaurants and caterers will be served and a no-host bar is provided.

For more information about this or other upcoming events, visit the Chamber's website at www.cereschamber.com.