The Walt Disney Company has long and storied partnership with Toys for Tots. In fact, Walt Disney himself would promote the organization’s efforts on his weekly Disneyland program and when the US Marine Corps officially adopted the charity and took the efforts nationwide, Mr. Disney led a team of animators in crafting their red cartoon train logo.
This year, over 30,000 Central Florida children—more than ever before—registered for Toys for Tots. But the Disney cast was up to the challenge. As part of their continuing celebration of the 35th year of Disney VoluntEARS, 35 Disney VoluntEARs and the 2019-2020 Walt Disney World Resort Ambassador team, with the aid of the highly visible polka-dotted Minnie Vans, delivered the nearly 30,000 toys. The items were those that Walt Disney World Resort Cast Members donated this year to the Toys for Tots of Central Florida distribution warehouse.
Last week’s event was among the final duties of current Ambassador Brandon and he offered his thanks to the VoluntEARS team and introduced them to the 2019-2020 Walt Disney World Resort Ambassador team who will officially step into their role after the first of the year.
As they posed for a group photo along with representatives from the US Marine Corps Santa Goofy arrived. I never tire of the looks of delight a character’s unanticipated arrival elicits even to Cast Members who make the magic each day.
As celebration concluded and the Marines and VoluntEARS prepared to get back work sorting and unloading the toys, a Toys for Tots Coordinator Sgt. Ash Jacques offered his thanks to the Disney cast volunteers. In his remarks, he noted the high quality of service that people expect when the USMC is involved and assured the Disney team that without their efforts achieving those high marks would not be reached. He thanked them for all their support in ensuring that every child receives a toy.
To learn more about Toys for Tots of Central Florida and to donate, visit the organization’s website.