When generosity sparks, it can grow into something remarkable. We've all heard stories of strangers paying it forward in coffee shop lines, creating chains of kindness that stretch through dozens—even hundreds—of people. Toys for Tots, one of the nation’s most beloved charity programs, grew from a similar spirit of giving.
If you’re considering giving back this season, here are 10 unexpected facts about Toys for Tots and some easy ways to get involved with ServiceOne’s Holiday Toy Drive.
1. The Woman Who Inspired It All
In 1947, Diane Hendricks, wife of Marine Corps Reserve Officer Major Bill Hendricks, crafted dolls to donate to children in need. When they couldn’t find a charity to accept the toys, Diane encouraged her husband to start one, sparking a legacy that led to collecting and donating 5,000 toys that first year.
2. Growing Into a National Mission
The success in Los Angeles inspired the Marine Corps Commandant to expand Toys for Tots to all Marine Reserve sites nationwide in 1948. What began as one couple’s initiative became a national movement supported by local communities everywhere.
3. Walt Disney’s Personal Touch
Walt Disney himself lent a hand to get the campaign rolling. As a favor to his friend Bill Hendricks, he created the first Toys for Tots logo, a cheerful train that continues to represent the organization today.
4. An Outpouring of Support from Celebrities and Corporations
From Nat King Cole to Shaquille O'Neal, and from First Ladies Nancy Reagan to Michelle Obama, countless celebrities and major brands—like UPS, Pizza Hut, and the New York Yankees—have supported Toys for Tots over the years.
5. Toys for Tots Makes National Philanthropy Lists
In 2001, the Toys for Tots Foundation made it onto the Philanthropy 400 list by The Chronicle, which recognizes the top nonprofit organizations based on their contributions from individuals, corporations, and foundations.
6. Responding in Times of Crisis
Beyond holiday giving, Toys for Tots steps in to help children facing special circumstances. In 1992, they distributed 250,000 toys to children affected by Hurricane Andrew, and in 2001, they held a special event for children who lost loved ones in the 9/11 attacks.
7. Located Close to the Action
The Toys for Tots Foundation headquarters sits just outside the Marine Corps Base at Quantico, VA, ensuring a strong connection to its Marine Corps roots and a steady stream of willing volunteers.
8. Supported by the Biggest Toy Makers
Toy manufacturers are some of Toys for Tots’ most generous supporters. Since 2008, Build-a-Bear has donated millions in stuffed animals, while Hasbro has contributed more than 6 million toys valued at over $60 million.
9. Not Just Toys—Books, Too!
In addition to toys, Toys for Tots promotes literacy by distributing books to children nationwide. In 2017 alone, they provided 37 million books to children with the help of UPS Store drives.
10. Reaching New Heights in 2024
This year, Toys for Tots is on track to distribute over 7 million toys to children across the country, continuing their mission of spreading hope and holiday cheer.
How You Can Join the Chain of Kindness with ServiceOne
This season, ServiceOne invites you to pay it forward. With each toy donation you make, you’re not only giving a child a joyful holiday but also spreading a wave of kindness in your community. And to say thank you, we’re offering exclusive savings on select services:
$20 OFF Coupon on Any of the Following Services:
- HVAC Service
- Plumbing Service
- Precision Tune-Up
- ClubOne Sign-up or Renewal
$100 OFF Coupons for Any of the Following:
- New Water Heater
- Halo 5 Whole-House Water Treatment System
- HVAC Replacement System
Extra Perks for Giving
Each toy donation automatically enters you into a Grand Prize Drawing:
-1st Prize: $500 in free services
- 2nd Prize: $250 in free services
- 3rd Prize: $100 in free services
Donating is simple:
Option One:
Hand your toy to our technician on any service call, and we’ll handle the rest.
Option Two:
Drop it off at our ServiceOne office at 45 Lake Mary.
Option Three:
Bring your toys to our booth at Lake Mary’s Holiday in the Park on December 6th! We’ll collect them there and take them back to our big drop-off site at our office!
Join ServiceOne in Spreading Joy
Be part of a movement that’s bigger than us all. Buy a toy, spread the joy, share some love, and make a difference.