Toys.

We're required encouraged by our corporation to have some sort of ongoing community service thing in our programs.

It's not because they're terribly interested in helping humanity, but they love corporate gestures that cost nothing and look good. Not that there's anything wrong with that, I just don't want anyone to think it's corporate altruism, because I'm pretty sure no such animal exists.

However, it works for me, because of my whole 'try to do something decent when I can' thing.

I was doing my regular morning surfing last week when I found this link on one of the news stations.

Tucker's Toybox 

I went and read the story, corresponded with Tucker's mom and decided that our community service project this year at my site would be this one.

I think it's something the kids would really be happy and proud to participate in, and something the parents would easily understand and be willing to donate to. I've even thought I might try to get the school on board with the project and make it an even larger thing.

This quote got me:
"Tucker's Toybox was his idea to bring a brightly decorated and fully stuffed toybox right into the hospital rooms. Giving each child a chance to escape the stressfulness of treatment thru the enjoyment and simple pleasures of play."

So this year, when my mom or my kids or a friend asks me what I want for my birthday or for Christmas, I know the answer.
Toys.
I want toys.
New ones.
In bright and exciting packages.
That kids would love to have. 

There are so many charities out there that have a board of directors and paid staff and take in so much money... then pay out a small percentage of what they take to the actual need.

I'm so touched by the idea of Tucker's mom taking a load of toys to the hospital every month. What a sweet thing to do. And such a lovely way of remembering her son. It sounds like he was really a neat kid.