Jimmy Vance

Five years ago, Jimmy Vance had to stop working because of an injury. He and his wife, Geneva, previously used part of their income to support local nonprofits but were unable to continue that after the injury. So Jimmy had an idea.

What if he began playing the part of Santa Claus during the Christmas season? While the real deal was busy at the North Pole, he could serve as a stand-in across the Greenbrier Valley, donating his pay to the causes he always loved supporting.

The idea has taken off like Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen, &…Rudolph! Jimmy attends more than 40 events each year on behalf of Saint Nicholas including parades, office parties, business open houses, and children’s events. He even attends an annual foster family party to spread holiday cheer! All of the proceeds of that work go to charities including Children’s Home Society, Toys for Tots, Shop With a Cop, & Greenbrier Humane Society.

Jimmy has even recruited and trained other helpers for Santa Claus over the last few years who stand in for the real Big Guy up north. He says bringing smiles to children’s faces makes it all worthwhile, for him and for his helpers.

For his generous spirit, his quick-wit with kids who share their wish lists, and his service to Santa Claus himself, we are proud to name Jimmy Vance as the certified Real West Virginian of the Week.

Have a nomination for future weeks? Email us at news@therealw.com.