Point Reyes Light - December 26, 2002
Valley kids learn to give
By Ivan Gale
Lagunitas School Montessori 4th and 5th graders learned some lessons in responsibility and giving last week, as they raised more than $800 in their annual Winter Faire for Valley Toys for Joys of Woodacre.
Organized by youth
Organized and run by the youngsters, the event featured a used toy sale, bake sale, theater, wreath-making, crafts, and booth games.
Mark Weiss, who accompanied his 7th grade son Aaron to the faire, said the experience was invaluable for teaching the kids important themes in life.
"This kind of project is great because it really is a good learning process, it gives kids responsibility, organization skills. It works on a lot of different levels." said Weiss. "Plus the kids feel like giving, not getting, which is a nice thing."
The students worked for several weeks in committees to plan and organize each activity, gather used toys, plan entertainment, and bring in baked goods for this event.
Priorities in order
The funds raised come not a moment too soon for Grace Tolson, founder of the Valley Toys for Joys charity.
She said this year her organization delivered presents to 221 children in the worst of the season’s storms.
"Sometimes you got to put your priorities together," said Tolson, who pays for many of the gifts she distributes, as she thanked the children for helping her this year.