Each year Vogelsang Fastener participates in various community events and fundraisers as part of our mission to support and give back to our local communities. During the holiday season we join forces with the Metropolitan Fastener Distributors Association (MFDA) and the Marine Toys for Tots program, with the collective goal of bringing the spirit of the season to the children of our community.
The mission of Marine Toys for Tots is, through the gift of a new toy, to help bring the joy of Christmas and send a message of hope to America’s less fortunate children. In addition, they provide emotional support and assistance to economically disadvantaged children through a series of year-round programs, including a Foster Care Initiative, Literacy Program, and more.
To date, the organization has distributed 652 million toys to over 291 million children.
A sampling of toys collected for this year’s event.
Jen Stuban, Director of Finance & Administration, is responsible for vetting and approving Vogelsang’s community activities each year, and Toys for Tots is dear to her heart.
When I reflect on my childhood, I remember how special it felt to see all the presents under the tree. Now as I watch my own children I can see how the magic of Christmas brings them so much joy. If I can help bring that to more children, then sign me up!
Each year at Vogelsang we set the box for toy donations in our cafeteria and I love seeing how much participation we get from our employees. Every day the pile of presents grows. It really shows a commitment to our culture of giving and shows that everyone understands the true meaning of Christmas.
In addition to a substantial number of toys, the MFDA presented Marine Toys for Tots with a financial donation of $8,000. Nick Penney, National Sales Manager for Vogelsang, attended this holiday’s dinner and donation event. With a group of over 60 industry representatives, it was the highest attendance in the past five years.
Nick Penney, 5th from left, joining other MFDA members and marines.
He had this to say about his experience:
Toys for Tots is a wonderful organization. The marines that work it are outstanding and our little bit of help fills a lot of needs. Over the years I’ve noticed that the quality of toys is always exceptional. You can tell that the people who participate are committed to bringing the spirit of Christmas to the children.
There is still a tremendous volume of need but it is nice to be with an organization that is part of a solution.
And let’s face it – it’s fun buying toys for kids!
To learn more about this organization and others that Vogelsang supports, visit our Community Giving page. We are grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the children in our communities.