Posting about giving isn’t something I would normally do, but in order to spread the word about Toys4SmilesLasVegas.org a non-profit 501(c)(3), so I must. Passing through the airport in Las Vegas on my way to Peru, and time to kill, I spent a few hours at the USO (United Service Organizations) while waiting to check my bags and process through security.
On a shelf, there were wooden toys, stuffed animals, and dolls that were donated for service members by local Las Vegas businesses. The USO volunteer staff told me to help myself, but I didn’t have much room left in my bags, so I only took one wooden toy. On Christmas Day, I headed to downtown Lima to cover the protests, and took the beautifuly hand crafted wooden toy with me to give away.
He was shy and reserved. I didn’t receive a smile in return, but I figure it’s not a normal occurance to have a gringo approach, and be handed a toy. Nonetheless, I think he liked it, and should have many years of enjoyment out of it.
Toys 4 Smiles Las Vegas.Org is in need of donations, weather it be with your time, materials, or cash.