Indian Trail Mayor Michael Alvarez has selected Donald Latham, also know as Mr. World, to accompany him during the Town’s Christmas Parade on Sunday, Dec. 5, and act as Mayor for the Day.
Latham earned the title of Mr. World, the ambassador of goodwill and service, when he represented the United States in the 2021 Today’s International Man Competition. The competition is based on community service and helping others in times of need. The competition includes several categories, including fitness wear, an interview, fashion wear, evening wear, as well as a personal platform for each contest to share their charitable mission.
“My mission is to assist communities in need during global crisis through disaster relief aid and motivational speaking to help increase morale and raise awareness for multiple charities,” Latham said. “I also support our armed forces and focus on humanitarian efforts. It is an honor to be selected by Mayor Alvarez to participate in the parade and be involved in such an important event for the Indian Trail community.”
Latham has been involved with numerous charitable causes, including The Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, Western North Carolina March of Dimes, The Mary Kay Ash Foundation and Silent Tears. In addition to his charitable causes and motivational speaking, he is also a fashion photographer.
Latham was born in the Philippines and was adopted by an American military family. He has lived all over the world, including Thailand and Japan. He now resides in Asheville, North Carolina.
“It’s an honor to have Donald serve as Mayor of the Day and ride next to me in the Christmas Parade,” said Alvarez. “The holiday season is all about giving back. Donald’s charitable causes and humanitarian efforts are outstanding examples of this and reminds us how important it is to serve our communities. No effort is too big or too small. It all makes a difference. I’m excited to have the Christmas Parade back this year and look forward to seeing everyone there on Sunday.”
The parade will begin at 4 p.m. starting at Post Office Drive. Floats will head down Indian Trail Road, turning right onto Matthews-Indian Trail Road before wrapping around Chestnut Square Park. There will be plenty of spots along the route to watch the parade.
Numerous festivities will be held at Chestnut Square Park following the parade, including s’mores and hot chocolate with Santa and Mrs. Claus, free crafts, games, and more. The night will be capped off with the official Indian Trail Christmas Tree Lighting. All are invited to attend, take part in the festivities and welcome in the holiday season. The parade will be live streamed on the Town’s Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/IndianTrail) for those who are unable to attend in person.