The holiday season is upon us and many adults are jaded by how this time of year has become more about consumerism than spreading cheer and goodwill. Once we reach a certain age the mystery seems to disappear and we are left with the reality of what this season can represent. Children have managed to maintain this wonder and the spirit of the season and if you are looking to remember and tap into the feeling of what these days are about, you don’t have to look far.
Eight-year-old Josilyn Martin-Richardson, along with the assistance of her parents and their many friends, hosted a toy drive where the goal was to collect 1,000 Barbie dolls to donate to young girls for the holidays.
Josilyn’s mom mentioned that her daughter was inspired to start this drive because of a trip she made with her grandmother to the park. Josilyn was playing with a young girl who did not have a Barbie doll. Josilyn believes that every little girl should have one and she asked her mom if she could do a brunch to collect the dolls for little girls in need.
The drive was held at the Velvet Lounge in Chicago with the full support of her parents, Kellie Martin and Jonathan Richardson. The manager of the Velvet Lounge, Miko Monroe, also assisted with the brunch.
It was a beautiful sight to see so many other children get involved because of Josilyn’s vision. To date, Josilyn has collected nearly 300 Barbies and over $600 in donations. The goal is to reach the 1,000 mark. All the Barbies will be donated to a collection of organizations, including: LaRabida Children’s Hospital, Lowden Homes, Trumbull Park of CHA, Ada S, McKinley Youth Services and children in Englewood via University Church in Chicago.
If you would like to donate, please contact Kelli Martin at [email protected]. Paypal donations can be to that email address also.
Take a look at a few pics from the event below.
