By now, many Eastside locals have heard whispers of it: Twinkling lights, beautifully adorned homes, and a sense of magic in the air. Yes—it’s true! The beloved Holiday Home Tour is making its return this December, and the Assistance League® of the Eastside (ALE) couldn’t be more excited to welcome you back. The tour is more than just a winter wonderland for décor lovers, it is one of the fundraisers for the organization, and the funds raised directly support individuals and families in need throughout the Eastside. Every ticket sold helps power their five core programs. 

Originally formed in 1997 as a chapter of the National Assistance League®, ALE has been working hard ever since to fulfill the mission of supporting individuals and families across Seattle’s Eastside communities. From providing clothes and school essentials for kids to supporting survivors of assault and those transitioning out of homelessness, ALE is a lifeline for many and has made a lasting impact on the community. Here are just a few of the things they do:

• Operation School Bell® provides new clothing and essentials to students in need in the Lake Washington, Bellevue, and Northshore School Districts. 

• Assault Survivor Kits® provide personal care items and clothing to survivors of assault. 

• Starting Over Support includes furnishing basic household items to individuals transitioning out of homelessness or crisis situations. 

• Help4Homeless supplies hygiene kits and warm essentials to individuals experiencing homelessness in our local area. 

• Women Inspired Network provides meals, clothing, and personal care items to local shelters.

There is an entire committee dedicated to the Holiday Home Tour’s big comeback led by Holiday Home Tour Chair, Amanda Standley. As a lifelong supporter of the Assistance League®, Amanda’s heart beats for community, connection, and making a real difference. “I’ve been involved with this organization for just a year on the Eastside, but I grew up in it,” Amanda shares. “As a teen, I was part of Assisteens in Southern California, the League’s youth program. It shaped who I am—teaching leadership, compassion, and the power of service.” That early experience inspired Amanda to continue giving back, and now she’s helping relaunch one of the Eastside’s most cherished traditions.

Mark your calendars! The Holiday Home Tour is not only a fundraiser—it’s also a community celebration that brings people together in the most festive way possible. Tour-goers will get to stroll through some of the Eastside’s most beautifully-decorated homes, gather holiday inspiration, and, most importantly, support a lineup of life-changing programs. “Whether you’re attending, opening your home to host the tour, or just spreading the word, your involvement fuels everything we do,” says Amanda. “We’re thrilled to bring this event back to life.”

Tickets will be available this fall, and they always go fast. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter or scan the QR code to get early access and event updates. Would you like to be considered to have your home featured on the tour? If so, we'd love to hear from you! It’s a unique way to give back and celebrate the season in style.

While the Holiday Home Tour is a major highlight, ALE keeps the good going all year-round. They host an Annual Gala, Boots & Bling, which was in March of 2025 and proved to be a huge hit! They also organize a Fall Run and, of course, continue their vital outreach programs year-round.

“Because we can,” Amanda says simply. “Giving back connects us to our community in the most authentic way. It reminds us that even the smallest actions can create lasting change. Volunteering with ALE gives people a way to plug in based on their strengths, time, and passions—and when you see the impact, it’s energizing.”

If you’re inspired by ALE’s mission, there are plenty of ways to lend a hand. Whether you're ready to volunteer, become a member, open your home for the tour, or simply buy a ticket, it all makes a difference. This holiday season, do something that sparkles with meaning. Step inside the homes—and hearts—of a community that believes in showing up for one another. We’ll see you on the tour!

If you would like your home to be considered for the tour or to purchase tickets, please visit our website to find out more, or simply scan the QR code.