Worcester Residents Create Western Skeleton Village
A local couple transforms their home into a detailed skeleton town to raise money for charity.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Philanthropy
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Erin and Dan Giza have turned their Worcester home into a Western-themed skeleton village, complete with a saloon and pirate ship. The festive display serves as a fundraiser for Sherry's House, a charitable organization they have supported since 2021.
Why it matters
What started as a creative endeavor for a pandemic-canceled party has evolved into a recurring community event that provides meaningful financial support to local families in need.
The couple has raised nearly $8,000 for Sherry's House since 2021. The elaborate display at 87 Tory Fort Lane requires approximately 40 hours of manual labor to construct.
The players
Erin Giza
She is a resident of Worcester who co-creates the annual Western-themed Halloween display at her family home.
Dan Giza
He is a fishery biologist who uses his building skills to construct the skeleton village display.
Sherry's House
This organization is a local charitable entity that receives the proceeds from the Giza family's annual Halloween fundraising efforts.
The details
Constructed from recycled pallets, crates, and repurposed fencing, the village features a bank, general store, and water tower. The Giza family began the annual tradition in 2020 and continues to expand the site over two weekends every October.
Timeline
The couple started decorating their home for Halloween in 2020.
The couple began collecting donations for Sherry's House in 2021.
The display is assembled and exhibited each October.
Market Landscape
This project reflects the broader trend of residential holiday displays evolving into organized, hyper-local charitable fundraising initiatives. By repurposing reclaimed materials, the display positions itself as a low-cost, community-driven alternative to commercial holiday attractions.
Local residents can visit the display at 87 Tory Fort Lane to view the installation and participate in the ongoing fundraising effort. Visitors should note that the exhibit is a volunteer-led project that relies on the community to support Sherry's House.
The takeaway
Turning creative hobbies into charitable conduits can significantly amplify a family's impact on their local community. Residents looking to give back can implement similar grassroots donation drives to support the specific causes that matter most to their neighbors.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts to support non-profits in the Worcester Philanthropy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Telegram & Gazette.
Live Poll
Do you enjoy having elaborately decorated homes in your neighborhood during holiday seasons?
