The History of the Toys for Tots Program

Posted on December 21, 2008 by Libby Pelham

You have probably seen advertisement in your local community for the Toys for Tots program. This is the program run by the United States Marine Corps Reserve that gives toys to needy children in the community. The program was started in 1947 by Major Bill Hendricks for the Los Angeles, California area. The first year, Major Hendricks collected 5,000 toys, with the first being a Raggedy Ann Doll made by Hendrick’s wife, Diane. Seeing there was a need for such a program, in 1948, it went national. The United States Marine Corps adopted the program as a project for its … Continue reading →

Hunters Aren’t Evil and Other Things Researching Charities Taught Me

Posted on November 14, 2007 by Courtney Mroch

I have so many things to be grateful for that it makes me want to open my heart and wallet a little wider, especially at this time of year. However, I also want to be smart in my giving and make sure my donations are being well utilized. That’s why I spent some time researching animal rights, welfare, and service organizations, wildlife conservation organizations, and zoos and aquariums to see which ones used their monies most efficiently and effectively. Thanks to sites like Charity Navigator and the American Institute of Philanthropy I was able to accomplish my goal. But I … Continue reading →

Christmas Eve Traditions for Couples

Posted on December 5, 2006 by Sherry Holetzky

The first Christmas together as a couple is always special, but even if you’ve been married for a while, and have spent a few or even many holidays together, these ideas might just inspire some new traditions. Special Gift Choose a special gift for each other, something small but especially thoughtful, and set aside a few moments on Christmas Eve for just the two of you. Open your gifts and enjoy the time together. Christmas Toast Pick out a set of champagne or wine glasses together. If you can find a Christmas set, that’s even better. You can also decorate … Continue reading →

Home Week in Review: November 27 – December 2

Posted on December 3, 2006 by Sherry Holetzky

What happened this week in the Home Blog? Well, you can find out quickly with this rundown. Find articles about anything you’re interested in from cleaning tips and holiday decorating to finances, charity, and everything else that has to do with home and family. If it wasn’t covered this week, be sure to check out other Week in Review pages for many more titles. Marjorie gave us lots of great cleaning tips this week as well as cool notebook ideas to help get organized for the holidays, in this series: Have a Merry, Organized Holiday: Part One Sections For Your … Continue reading →

Top Ten Resources for Charitable Giving, Part II

Posted on December 2, 2006 by Sherry Holetzky

Here are seven more excellent resources, continued from Part I. 4. Operation Christmas Child This organization offers you a way to send a gift as well as the message of Jesus to children in need overseas. You simply fill a shoebox with goodies, gifts, supplies, your message, and your gift will be sent. 5. Groups for our Troops Speaking of overseas, please see “Don’t Forget the Troops during the Holidays” for links to three well-regarded groups that help provide care packages to our troops. Please note that packages do take a while to reach distant destinations, so you’ll need to … Continue reading →