As the holiday season approaches, the Kidzz Helping Kidzz community is buzzing with excitement and goodwill.
In this heartwarming article, we'll introduce you to our December Rising Star, Everette Crouse, and take you behind the scenes of our bustling headquarters in Bremerton. Join us as we explore the incredible efforts of volunteers, the heartwarming stories of community support, and the partnerships that make our annual toy drive a success.
December Rising Star: Everette Crouse
December is a time for spreading joy and making a difference in the lives of others. One remarkable youth who embodies the spirit of giving is Everette Crouse, our December Rising Star. As a member of our Advisory Board since 2019, Everette has played an instrumental role in our Christmas toy drives, backpack-packing initiatives, and has been an invaluable voice on our board. Standing at over 6 feet tall, Everette is not only a natural athlete excelling in football, basketball, and baseball, but also a gifted musician, playing the violin and bass guitar. His passion for helping others shines through in his actions, as he is always ready to lend a hand. We are truly honored to have Everette on our Advisory Board of Kidzz Helping Kidzz!
Headquarters Abuzz for Spreading Holiday Cheer
At Kidzz Helping Kidzz headquarters in Bremerton, the energy is palpable as toys pour in from Kitsap, King, and Pierce Counties. Thanks to our dedicated volunteers, who tirelessly collect donated toys from various sites in the community, we have already received an impressive 5,731 toys. And the calls keep coming, with more toy donations on the way!
Labeling and Boxing Toys with Love
To ensure that each toy reaches its deserving recipient, our team of kids, parents, and volunteers gathered for a toy sorting party over the weekend. With our Kidzz Helping Kidzz labels, featuring our logo and contact information, each toy was carefully labeled. This year, we added a QR code to the labels, allowing children or their family members to share their stories of receiving a Kidzz Helping Kidzz Christmas donation. After labeling, the toys were meticulously boxed, creating a puzzle-like challenge for those with good visual-spatial skills. Our goal is to stack the boxes efficiently in our delivery truck, maximizing space to bring joy to as many children as possible.
"Boxing the toys is much harder than it sounds. Certain toys can be grouped together easily, which makes boxing them like a game of Christmas toy drive Tetris." - Kidzz Helping Kidzz
A Network of Dedicated Toy Drive Volunteers
Our volunteers play a crucial role in ensuring the success of our toy drive. They diligently collect donated toys from various locations, bringing them to our headquarters. We are immensely grateful for their dedication and commitment to making a difference in the lives of ill children.
Community Support and Heartwarming Partnerships
Witnessing the magic of teamwork, we were joined by an incredible Girl Scout troop # 41583 from Bainbridge Island. Seven of their members lent their helping hands in labeling and sorting toys. These girls are truly amazing!
Every toy we receive, every act of kindness, and every volunteer effort reminds us of the immense generosity within our community. The impact of Kidzz Helping Kidzz extends beyond the toys themselves; it fosters a sense of togetherness and community spirit.
Chelsea and her daughter volunteered their help today and shared their touching story with us. When Chelsea's daughter was only three years old, they spent a lot of time at Seattle Children's Hospital. The impact of receiving toys during her stay left a life long lasting impression on her and her family, highlighting the importance of our toy drive. Here's their story...
The Wynn Group's Continued Support
We extend our gratitude to The Wynn Group commercial business brokers for selecting Kidzz Helping Kidzz as their charity organization once again. Their entire staff will be joining us during our toy sorting party on Saturday, December 16, bringing toys from their partners and clients. Their ongoing support makes a significant impact on the success of our toy drive.
A Special Partnership: Olalla Vineyard and Winery
For the second consecutive year, the Olalla Valley Vineyard & Winery has chosen Kidzz Helping Kidzz as their Nonprofit of the month. Inspired by our work, they will be donating a portion of their monthly wine sales to support our toy drive. We are grateful for their generosity and for sharing our mission with their customers.
Volleyball Players Making a Difference
Dragan Karadzic, Director of Operations at Puget Sound Region USA Volleyball, has been a steadfast supporter of our toy drives. In the past four drives, Dragan's volleyball teams have brought in numerous toys to support Kidzz Helping Kidzz. Their dedication and generosity are truly inspiring. We are grateful for these amazing volleyball players and their commitment to brightening the lives of ill children.
Rock 'N' Roll Stuffed Animals: A Special Donation
The Band Mates shop in Bothell, WA, has made a generous donation of Rock ‘N’ Roll stuffed animal plush toys. They loaded up their car and drove these cuddly companions to our headquarters in Bremerton. Visit their website to learn more about their fantastic plush toys.
Partnering with Hope Worldwide Scouts
This year, we have formed a partnership with Hope Worldwide Scouts, a family community engagement program aimed at empowering children and their parents to support local programs benefiting kids in need. Under the guidance of Scout Leaders, scouts from kindergarten through 8th grade actively contribute to their communities. Beginning on December 16, troop members will join us in our toy sorting parties, and several of them will accompany us on toy deliveries to hospitals.
Efficiency and Community Spirit
Our team's efficiency was truly remarkable during a recent work session. In just 60 minutes, we labeled and boxed over 600 toys, averaging 100 toys every 10 minutes – showcasing the fantastic teamwork and dedication of our volunteers.
The Joy of Giving
There is an unmistakable buzz and excitement that surrounds our Kidzz Helping Kidzz toy drives, particularly during the holiday season. Each act of giving, whether through toy donations or volunteer efforts, fills our hearts with warmth. Not only do we bring joy to ill children through our toys, but we also create a sense of community by joining together and making a difference. We are sincerely grateful for all who contribute to the success of our Kidzz Helping Kidzz toy drives.
As the holiday spirit carries on, consider joining us in our mission to bring joy to children in need. Your toy donations and support can make a significant impact on the lives of these young patients. Together, let's make this holiday season a time of hope, happiness, and healing for all.
It's wonderful to read of all the people involved in Kidzz Helping Kidzz. We are honored to be a part of such a terrific effort. Congratulations on once again exceeding the goal for toys collected!