“I can’t express the feeling ….
“I can’t express the feeling we all get when we see these kids faces light up,” said Brown Descents Car Club President Robert Esparza, who took to the mic at the dance. “We talk to so many parents who didn’t know what they were getting their kids this year. You’re angels. We always make sure to mention you, the people of Leisure World.”
The toys are expected to reach 500 kids this year, a massive increase from the organization’s first toy distribution event seven years ago, which benefitted just 50 lucky kids.
“After we established a relationship with Leisure World, wow, what a difference,” Esparza said.
That relationship formed thanks to former GRF Physical Property Inspector Mike Meza, who was a member of the club.
For years, the car club gladly accepted leftover toys from GRF’s toy drive, the bulk of which went to the Marines at the time. After the Marines changed their procedures, the Brown Descents became GRF’s go-to charity.
In addition to collecting toys, the 501(c)3 also provides scholarships and mentorship to disadvantaged teens. LWers are invited to attend the car club’s toy distribution on Saturday, Dec. 21, from 10 a.m.2 p.m. at Orangewood Avenue Baptist Church, located at 8421 Orangewood Ave., Garden Grove.
The event will feature a car show, a Christmas pop-up bazaar, music, food and vendors. The toy giveaway will begin at 1:30 p.m.
Jenny Lambert (l) and William Young hit the dance floor in festive attire.
Marvin Jones of Mutual 7 (l) and Marilyn Hewitt of Mutual 6 donated toy cars.
Emma DiMaggio
