The Wish List Project began in 2000 during the Christmas holiday season and is still growing strong 10 years later.

Ginger Mahon, the organizer of the community outreach, said the Wish List Project helped more than 300 needy families during the holiday season in 2008.

“It can be rewarding and fun to think outside of your own family’s Christmas,” Mahon said.

Despite the recession, Mahon is still committed to serving families and children this year.

She said her goal is to inspire other people to do what she is doing, and every year the Wish List Project grows.

“Pick an organization and give back to the community,” she said.

The Embry Rucker Community Shelter in Reston, a part of Reston Interfaith, is one of the organizations that will benefit from the holiday Wish List Project.

The Embry Rucker Community Shelter provides 70 beds each night for men, women and families, according to Reston Interfaith’s Web site.

Amy McDowell, the director of communications at Reston Interfaith, said this is the first time in a long time that people have to make tough choices about how they will spend their money during the holiday.

“[The Wish List Project] is sticking with their commitment to giving,” McDowell said. “We’re extremely grateful for her ongoing commitment for 10 years.”

Nevertheless, Mahon said she wants to be a tool that gives hope to those in need and channels the generosity of donors.

“Let me help you help them,” Mahon said. “When I heard about Emory Rucker, I was compelled. I get a lot out of it.”

Sister Mary Bader, the director of St. Ann’s Infant and Maternity home in Hyattsville, Md. said Mahon contacted her three years ago.

Bader said Mahon inquired about the organization and wanted to help.

“She has been quite a blessing,” Bader said. “Last year, she was able to get new comforters for the kids.”

Bader said that while other groups assist with toys and other donated items, Mahon travels all the way from Virginia.

“She comes with some of the special times that kids want,” Bader said.

The Wish List Project also addresses the needs of 75 teens in Fairfax County Foster Care, Katherine Hanley Family Shelter in Fairfax, Shelter House in Falls Church and SHARE in McLean.