*Applications now closed*
Are you between 6 and 18 years old, living with type 1 diabetes (T1D), and looking for a way to make a difference and have some fun during the holiday season? We’re got the perfect opportunity for you – becoming a Breakthrough T1D Elf for the 2026 Gingerbread Village at the Sheraton Grand Seattle!
A Breakthrough T1D Elf is a representative for Breakthrough T1D between the ages of 6-18 that lives with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Each Elf is matched with an architecture team that will be designing and creating the gingerbread houses that decorate the Sheraton Grand Seattle. Elves collaborate with the architects throughout the fall, encouraging, inspiring and helping with the creations until the unveiling on the Monday before Thanksgiving.
What is expected of the Elves?
The ability to tell their story and encourage people to participate in this amazing community event!
Breakthrough T1D Elves will be sharing some of their daily challenges and triumphs with the architecture team that they work with, as well as with the general public. Breakthrough T1D Elves have a section on the Gingerbread Village website (www.gingerbreadvillage.org) devoted to them, where Breakthrough T1D will post their profile story and photo. Elves send out emails encouraging family and friends to visit Gingerbread Village at the Sheraton, vote for their gingerbread house, and ultimately contribute to Breakthrough T1D’s mission to turn type 1 into type none. Elves have their photo and “story” displayed next to their house during the Gingerbread Village event. They may also be asked to speak to the press on Press Day or in the days leading up to the unveiling of the Gingerbread Village.
Breakthrough T1D Elves develop a relationship with the architects by inspiring and assisting them through the creative process.
They also have the opportunity to thank the architect firm that they work with for their time and effort. Examples of this stewardship include:
- Baking cookies and delivering them to the firm
- Giving the architects a phone call once a month
- Writing a thank you letter
- Drawing a picture
- Anything else that will help show our gratitude!
Elves are available for specific Kickoff dates and to volunteer while the event is going on.
- Gingerbread Village Kickoff (July 9th from 12pm-1:30pm PT): Elves will meet the architects and get ready for the year!
- Press Day/Unveiling at the Sheraton Grand Seattle (November 18th): When the gingerbread houses are unveiled to the press and VIP guests and Elves are introduced.
- The displays are open to the public started after unveiling; we will also need Elves & their families to volunteer occasionally by handing out candy canes and answering questions about Breakthrough T1D & type 1 diabetes (T1D).
Becoming a Breakthrough T1D Gingerbread Village Elf is more than just a fun holiday activity – it’s a chance to make a real impact. As an Elf, you’ll share your story, inspire your community, and help raise awareness for T1D while creating sweet memories along the way.
Applications are now closed.
You can also learn more about Gingerbread Village here, or reach out to [email protected] if you have any questions.