North Dearborn Association Announces 18th Annual ‘Joy of Toys’ Holiday Toy Drive

Nov. 3, 2010 - PRLog -- On Saturday, December 4, 2010, The North Dearborn Association (NDA) will host the 18th Annual “Joy of Toys” Holiday Wrap Party. This yearly holiday tradition brings together friends, volunteers, neighbors, and businesses for a celebration filled with music, fun, food, holiday cheer, and more…to collect toys and gifts benefiting the children attending George Manierre School and Catherine Ferguson Child Parent Center. This festive event is open to the public and will take place at Mario’s Gold Coast Ristorante at 21 W. Goethe, from 1:00pm-3:30pm. Admission requires a new, unwrapped gift valued at $20 for a child 5-7 years old. Santa and his elves will distribute the toys at a later date.

“This event is a great opportunity for the community to come together and provide a much deserved toy during the holiday season,” said Bob Newman, President of the NDA.  “This event allows the NDA to connect with others in the community and to make a difference in the lives of the children who attend this neighborhood school.”

The afternoon – featuring food, spirits, music, and gift wrapping – is made entirely possible thanks to the generosity of the local community, volunteers, and Mario Stefani - owner of Mario’s - for providing the space, food, and holiday cheer year after year.  

“Thanks to the generosity of everyone who participates during this annual event, hundreds of our neediest kids will receive a heartfelt holiday gift this season. Many of our families are struggling to make ends meet, to keep a roof over their heads and food on the table, so these gifts make a huge difference in bringing joy to the lives of their children,” said Shirley Roach, Principal of George Manierre School.

This festive and charitable toy drive has provided over 5,400 Chicago-area children in need with a much-appreciated gift during the holiday season.

Suggested gift donations include: Dolls, sports gear, action figures, hand-held electronics (with batteries included), or remote controlled toys (with batteries included). We kindly ask that the following gift categories be avoided: Items that require a computer or other hardware, toy guns, oversized toys, and strictly educational or religious-themed items.

At a later date, “Santa” will make a surprise visit to distribute the toys to the young students at George Manierre School and Catherine Ferguson Child Parent Center. Media is welcome to attend.  

For additional information please visit: www.northdearbornassociation.com or call: 312.632.1241

EDITORS NOTE: Hi-res images available of the 2009 Holiday Wrap Party and “Santa” distribution. Media is welcome to attend toy distribution with Santa. Please contact Shelly Cellak for more info.

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About North Dearborn Association:
The North Dearborn Association (NDA) is dedicated to the preservation and beautification of its Near North neighborhood. The Association recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, at which Mayor Richard M. Daley complimented it as “representing the best part of what is good about this city.” Among its recent projects, the NDA led the effort to preserve the vintage integrity of a structure housing a new CVS store and is currently working to help preserve and renovate the historic 3Arts Club landmark building. Proceeds from the Garden Walk go back into the community for preservation and beautification efforts. For more information, please visit: www.northdearbornassociation.com