Recently, the Finance team from Internap had the opportunity to spend time volunteering with the Atlanta Toys for Tots organization. The primary goal of Toys for Tots is: “To deliver, through a new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to less fortunate youngsters that will assist them in becoming responsible, productive, patriotic citizens.”
Volunteering with an organization that focuses on toys and children sounded like a fun way to spend an afternoon. But the Internap team quickly realized that the amount of work required to provide 1 million toys at Christmas was an enormous undertaking. In a warehouse filled with an overwhelming number of items, toys were sorted into appropriate age groups. Our volunteers performed tasks in organized, easy-to-follow segments, and it was simple to jump right in and focus on getting things done.
Most people are familiar with Toys for Tots through the images of the Marines handing out toys to children on TV, but the opportunity to participate first-hand in the hard work that takes place behind the scenes made us more appreciative of this ambitious organization. The experience also offered the chance for peers and coworkers to come together and support a larger charitable cause.
Everyone worked hard to sort and pack thousands of toys, and by the end of the day, the group was tired. But it was a humbling experience for the volunteers, knowing that their efforts can send a message of hope to a child this holiday season.
For more information on how to donate or volunteer, please visit Toys for Tots.org.
