New Virtual Toy Collections and Cleanings Are a Hit!

The pandemic changed many of our behaviors, not only in the way we socialize, travel and do business, but even in the way we help others in need. And for Second Chance Toys, that meant reimagining in-person toy collections and cleanings so that participants could safely partake and still feel the camaraderie and fun that these events bring. We came up with virtual toy collections and cleanings that are educational, fun, and bring parents and children together in the comfort of their homes to Do Good and Be Green. The response has been tremendous!

How does it work? 

• We ask participating companies to call for volunteers and their kids to collect toys in advance of the zoom event.
• While participants are cleaning their toys together virtually, we engage them with questions about plastics, sustainability and even their favorite toys!
• Worksheets are sent to participants ahead of time to reinforce learning about reuse and giving during the event, as well as before and after.
  • Children have an opportunity to show off their coloring sheets, sing together a sustainability rap song, and calculate their personal impact on the environment.
  • After the event is over, parents and children can continue the conversation with our four-page teacher reviewed activity booklet that is both fun and educational. 
• Once cleaned, all toys are sent to a central location and 1-800-GOT-JUNK? volunteers with us to distribute the toys to our designated local organizations serving children in need.

We are thrilled that ViacomCBS, AIG and Citi employees and their children have already participated in the program. Their efforts brought in over 500 gently used and cleaned plastic toys that have been donated to five organizations in California, Washington, D.C., New York and New Jersey. That translates to over 2,000 lbs. of plastic diverted from the waste stream and over 1,000 smiling children that benefit from EACH round of SHARED play! That's what we call success! Thank you ViacomCBS, AIG and Citi for recognizing the value of this program.