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Centre County, however, does not have a Marine Corps Reserve unit to conduct the program. Fortunately, Centre County does have an active and aggressive Marine Corps League chapter. The Nittany Leathernecks Detachment, a community service organization composed of active, retired and former Marines, decided to make the national program work for Centre County. During 1987, the Nittany Leathernecks conducted their first campaign.
Since that time the outreach and community support efforts developed by the detachment has been phenomenal. The program is now considered one of Centre County's premier charity events. Rightfully so, the detachment is especially proud of it program and commitment.
Each year the annual local campaign effort ensures that over 3000 less-than-fortunate Centre County children enjoy the holiday spirit. The Centre County Toys for Tots campaign accommodates all religious protocols (in concert with economic eligibility) for Christmas, Hanukkah, Ramadan, and Kwanza during the December-January holiday seasons.
Behind the scene, an almost year-long effort ensures the critical three week execution period is successfully conducted without a hitch. An official kick-off breakfast usually occurs the week prior to Thanksgiving. Collection of new toys begins within the county by Thanksgiving weekend throughout a designated collecting period. Collection shortfalls are covered through cash donations provided by both commercial and individual benefactors.
Service to country still burns bright in the bellies of our members. The Nittany Leathernecks have a saying: "Valiant service is not limited to combat." While many members have lost a step or two to Father Time, there is still the desire to serve God, Country and the Marine Corps through community service effort like Toys for Tots. It should be understood, up front, that the Toys for Tots Program is not really about toys. It is about HOPE! That is the message the Nittany Leathernecks want to send to disadvantaged children within the community -- and beyond. America is about hope and opportunity. The Nittany Leathernecks want these special children in our community to know that. So that is the message we hope you will help us send out each year through your support and volunteer efforts.
Organization Support: The Nittany Leathernecks Detachment encourages group organizational support. Seldom does the detachment recognize individual contributions. In keeping with a community protocol, the detachment emphasizes organizational support as a means for achieving dynamic synergy more conducive to program success. Team work, we believe, is the vehicle for carrying out the message and spirit of the Centre County Toys for Tots Program. Team has always been the foundation of the Marine Corps' success. Therefore the concept has been carried over into our detachment's community effort.
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