Random Acts helped a college student put her service values into action when she spearheaded a toy drive at a holiday community event in Chatsworth, California. Our supporter Sandra Garcia rallied her fellow students and family members to create a team united by a shared goal of spreading kindness and support.
Leading With Heart
Sandra is a very active student who lives her leadership values. As the Vice President of the TAE Honors Society, a TRIO student, a Rainbow Pride Scholar, and a California Promise student, she is always looking for ways that she and her fellow students can serve. After participating in another community event through her college, she became familiar with Angelinos of Hope. The organization encourages college students to support their community. Through Angelinos of Hope, Sandra was introduced to La Mano Extendida. The two organizations were planning a holiday Jingle of Joy & Hope event, and Sandra was happy to become involved.
With funding provided by Random Acts, Sandra was able to purchase toys needed for the distribution event. At one point, she was concerned about not having enough toys, but California Highway Patrol officers delivered additional toys in the final days leading up to the event, which helped ensure all families were supported.
Small Acts, Big Smiles
The event created a festive and welcoming atmosphere for about 100 children and their families who attended. The space was filled with holiday décor, balloons, and holiday music playing in the background, along with Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and elves available for family photos. There were snacks, holiday treats, drinks, and activities to keep children entertained throughout the event. Sandra and her team assisted with setup, check-in, and toy distribution. They also took photos and videos to capture special moments.
One funny moment occurred when Santa stepped outside on a break without his costume beard, and a volunteer tried to block his view from a family, joking, “Do not look at Santa right now.” The kids laughed when their mom explained that the older siblings had already revealed the truth about Santa.
“Seeing the happiness and smiles on the children’s faces was incredibly moving and reinforced the importance of community service, collaboration, and compassion,” Sandra says. “Hearing families share their appreciation made it clear that the event provided not only toys, but also a sense of community, care, and relief during a time that can be challenging for many.”
The Power of A Shared Goal
The experience touched Sandra so deeply that it opened the door to future involvement. Both Angelinos for Hope and La Mano Extendida hope to work with Sandra and her fellow students as the organizations expand their programs and impact. Sandra says, “Knowing that this experience may lead to continued service and a deeper role in supporting the community has been especially rewarding and reinforced my commitment to giving back. I am deeply grateful to Random Acts for allowing us to be part of such a heartfelt and memorable experience.”
Local Acts Add Up to Global Good
At Random Acts, our mission is to fund acts of kindness, both large and small. Do you have an idea for an act of kindness in your own community? Contact your local Random Acts Regional Representative for information on Sponsored Acts or any other help you need to turn your idea into a reality.
