Founder

Jillanne Bowler-Veltman

​Jillanne initiated Elf Anonymous as a way to give another meaning to Christmas that is not completely based on dollar amounts spent on gifts. Providing people who do not normally get to celebrate the holidays with something they don't have access to and a friendly smile is one way for her to give back and feel connected to her community. As her 89-year old grandmother reminds her how lonely old age can be, Jillanne wanted to keep those in mind who may not have others thinking of them. Enriching the lives of seniors who have spent their entire lives keeping traditions alive around the holidays and no longer have the means to continue those traditions is one simple act that can spiral into a feeling that can last year-round.
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Jillanne would consider herself a "volunteer addict", and has contributed to other not-for-profits as a volunteer, including:
- Bannerman Community League
Role: social events coordinator (2015-present)
-Greater Edmonton Animal Rescue Society
Role: occasional event coordinator (2015-present)
​- Sexual Assault Center of Edmonton
Role: crisis line operator (2010-2012)

Chief Elf

Diana Graham

Diana joined the Elf Anonymous Team in 2018 to assist in event planning and coordination in hopes to expand the number of seniors' hearts we touch. She describes herself below:

"It is an honor to be the new Volunteer Event Coordinator for Elf Anonymous! I am a mom of three and a grandma to one. I am an animal lover with 12 pets in my home, my favorite being my six ferrets! Giving back to my community is very important to me. I volunteer with Adoption Options as a part of a fundraising initiative and as a general volunteer. I also volunteer at my 9-year-old son's elementary school. I look forward to spending time with seniors in need, during the upcoming holiday season."