Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin employees got into the giving spirit this year.

Staff members from each MCHS — Austin department organized drives, raised money and donated to various causes this year, from the Salvation Army Angel Tree Program to the Mower County Humane Society.

“It’s strictly staff and their departments,” said Tami Yokiel, Communications Manager. Yokiel said staff members have made volunteer efforts and donations an annual affair, as MCHS Austin workers put their time into raising money for community causes as opposed to doing office Christmas gifts.

“They truly enjoy being able to do something that really does help out the community,” Yokiel said.

Lt. Laura Amick said the Angel Tree program had a banner year, as the Salvation Army helped more than 1,200 children this holiday season. More than 900 children received Angel Tree presents last year, according to Amick.

“It’s wonderful,” Amick said. “This community is so giving.”