James D. Rielly Foundation's Michael Rielly Inducted into the International Santa Claus Hall of Fame

BRISTOL, R.I., Dec. 23, 2019 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ - The James D. Rielly Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides charitable support to Veterans and the children and families of military, law enforcement, and first responders, announced today that founder and president Michael Rielly, has been named to the International Santa Claus Hall of Fame for his contributions to the Santa Claus community and his charitable work as Santa Claus.

Located in Santa Claus Indiana, the International Santa Claus Hall of Fame is the home of the celebration and study of famous Santa Clauses and Mrs. Clauses of the past and present. This ongoing project is meant to preserve the historical documentation of the many men and women who have greatly contributed to the Legend of Santa Claus.

Nominees were evaluated on eight criteria: overall career, range of appearances, length of service, uniqueness of career, charity, originality, contribution to the Santa world, and service to their community.

A resident of Bristol Rhode Island, Michael Rielly has been described as "Rhode Island's premier Santa" and an "expert in Santa Claus and all things Christmas".

"It's a great honor to be recognized by the International Santa Claus Hall of Fame, and I'm humbled to be included in the company of such great Santas and Mrs. Clauses," said Michael Rielly. "I truly feel blessed".

In 2010, Michael Rielly's grandfather, James D. Rielly, also of Bristol Rhode Island, was one of the inaugural inductees into the International Santa Claus Hall of Fame.

Michael Rielly founded the ClausNet Santa Claus Network in 2007 ? the largest community and resource for men and women actors dedicated to the traditions and faithful portrayal of Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and all others who devote their time to bringing the magic of Christmas to children of all ages throughout the world.

In 2017, Michael Rielly established the James D. Rielly Foundation; a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization providing support to the children and families of Veterans, active and reserve military, law enforcement, and first responders.

For more information about the International Santa Claus Hall of Fame, visit https://www.santaclaushall.com/about/.

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About James D. Rielly Foundation, Inc.
The James D. Rielly Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides charitable and emotional support to Veterans and the children and families of military, law enforcement, and first responders hindered by economic status, physical or mental challenges. To learn more, please visit: http://www.jdrfoundation.org. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

SOURCE James D. Rielly Foundation