As owner of the Tourist Inn in Hallam, Annette Fullerton believes in giving back to the community. She organizes fundraisers for various organizations throughout the year, but it's the Tourist Inn Annual Benefit that touches her heart the most. Each year, the benefit committee selects a local child in need and hosts a daylong event to spotlight the child. This year's benefit will be held at the Tourist Inn, 671 W. Market St., on Saturday, Dec. 3, beginning at 2 p.m. Proceeds will go to Maddox Thomas, a 2-year-old boy who was born with 18p deletion syndrome, a chromosomal disorder.

"This year is especially important to me, because Maddox is one of our own," Fullerton said, noting that he is the grandson of her band manager, Chuck Schlum. Although the syndrome has left Maddox nonverbal and unable to stand without help, he can sign for things he wants and he charms everyone with his spirit, Fullerton stated. He particularly enjoys sitting on his grandpa's lap and helping him play his guitar.

The benefit event will begin with Hellam and Wrightsville first responders escorting Maddox and his family to the Tourist Inn, where they'll be greeted by Santa, Mrs. Claus and some elves. A live auction featuring hundreds of items will be held at the establishment. "We have such a variety - gift cards to local businesses, a lot of Christmas items, children's toys, collectibles," Fullerton said. "There is something for everyone." Baked goods will be for sale as well, and all proceeds from the auction and food sales will go to Maddox.

Fullerton noted that the idea for the benefit began one year when employees were discussing their annual Christmas gift exchange. "One of my employees brought it up and said, 'We don't need these gifts, but I know a child who needs a little help,'" Fullerton recalled. "And that's how it started."

Past recipients of the benefit are invited to return each year. "We call them the 'TI' kids," Fullerton said, referring to the Tourist Inn. "They're invited to come in with the first responders as well and be a part of the day."

Along with giving the child the proceeds from the day's activities, the benefit committee tries to go a little bit further, Fullerton said. "We try to not only raise money for the child, but we also provide them with every item on their Christmas list," she stated. "Santa also usually has a gift for the children of previous benefits as well."

She encourages anyone to donate items for the auction and to come to be a part of the event. "If they come to the benefit, they will find themselves in a room of amazing people who are giving gifts of their time and their talent to help someone," she remarked. "It's a room full of caring, loving people. It's really an amazing day."

For more information on the benefit, visit the Tourist Inn's Facebook page or call 717-755-7629.