Walk into the Toys for Tots headquarters in Downers Grove and what you will see is a buzz of excitement and thousands of toys. It’s an organized, cheerful location created by volunteers making a difference in the lives of many as they give of their time and talents to organize the toys for needy families across DuPage County.
Toys for Tots is manned by community volunteers. Many have links to military life, having served or being related to someone serving in the military. Others are local members of the community wanting to make a difference.
Bruce Peiffer has been a leader in Boy Scouts Troop 80 for 14 years. A retired Marine himself, he makes time for this program each year and brings Troop 80 members to help out. Peiffer’s sons, both Eagle Scouts, are currently serving their country. Son, Garrick is a Navy Lieutenant junior grade, while son, Alec is a Marine Second Lieutenant. Peiffer spent several hours filling toy orders for the organization. "Working along side Peiffer was St. Joseph School 8th grader, Larry Dunn and DGN Junior Sean Spratt,both members of Troop 80.
Rose Sterr currently serves at St. Joseph Parish as a Religious Education teacher. She brought four students with her to help out. Her son, Michael is currently at West Point Academy.
This time of year is the most visible and the busiest perhaps, but all of this starts in early August at the DuPage County Marine Corps League. Over 200 people come forth to gather boxes and prepare for the season. Rita O’Reilly served in the 2nd Battalion-24th Marines for nine years and coordinated Toys for Tots in the past. Now as a member of the Marine Corps Reserve, she has again taken the position of coordinator for the DuPage area. “Approximately 45-50,000 quality toys are distributed annually through the community’s generous donations.” O’Reilly talked of donations of $5000 and $10,000 from various area clubs and organizations. She spoke of how people coming together really make the difference. “For instance, local resident Eileen James has dedicated herself to our program. She is a marketing genius!”
Retired in the marketing field, Eileen recently lost her husband of 35 years. “I came in and raised my hand and here I am! This has helped me find purpose this holiday season.” O’Reilly is glad she found purpose at Toys for Tots. “Eileen has refined our work and made it better. She is priceless to us.”
The busiest day of the season for Toys for Tots is December 17th. That is the day when they call for all hands on deck to fill the majority of toy requests. Donations are still being accepted at various locations and events throughout the area.
For more information on Toys for Tots or their drop off locations, go to http://dupage-il.toysfortots.org. The organization accepts online donations as well as toys.
Tis the season!
