This fall, students will have the opportunity to give back to the community with the Toys for Tots program on campus, with an event sponsored by University Recreation’s club sports department.

During the fall months, the club sports department collects toys from the 52 club sports teams at the University. The toys then get donated to the Toys for Tots program that provides needy children with Christmas gifts.

Toys for Tots was created in 1991 by the United States Marine Corps Reserve and has since been receiving donated toys to distribute to low-income communities during the Christmas season. The USMC Toys for Tots foundation backs the program with a board of directors and recognition from the IRS as a nonprofit public charity.

The foundation takes part in two main activities: program services and support services. The program aspect of service is responsible for toy distribution, local coordinator support and education about the foundation. Support services are responsible for management and fundraising.

The club sports teams are partnering with the U.S . Marine Core Reserve’s program to give students a chance to be charitable on campus. This initiative is also a part of the campaign to raise awareness about poverty among families in the U.S .

Ryan Sprouse , a senior in turf grass management, plans to dip his hand in the charity pool by donating a toy to one of the club sports teams.

“Of course I’ll donate. Every little bit helps and I think everyone could spare $10 to make a kid’s Christmas that much better,” Sprouse said.

Sprouse said he knew about the program, but didn’t know it was sponsored the University. He said he believes Toys for Tots is a great organization because it helps children of the U.S . who are in need.

“I like that it’s a program to [help] our own people. Christmas is a joyful time and no child should wake up to disappointment [that day],” Sprouse said.

Mary Yemma , assistant director of club sports, and the participating teams have been collecting toys for the program for three years. Each year, the accumulated toys are donated at the home football game collection day.

“I drive a Mazda 6 and typically we fill my entire car with toys,” Yemma said.

Alumnus and 2nd Lt. Jordan Peoples is a supporter of giving back as well.

“I think it’s a great charity and I plan on participating as much as possible throughout my career as a Marine and after,” Peoples said.

The club sports teams will be accepting donations of new, unwrapped toys to continue the effort to provide for underprivileged children.

The Foundation has been instrumental in keeping the Toys for Tots program alive and capable of providing Christmas gifts for many children.