`Tis the Season (For Toy Runs)

View Upcoming Toy RunsWith the holidays racing towards us it's time to dust off the heated riding gear and novelty helmet. Maybe a Santa Helmet is what you need?

Many of us will be participating on motorcycle toy runs in the coming weeks to help less fortunate children celebrate Christmas. It's an annual tradition for millions of motorcyclists all over the US.

Many of these runs benefit the U.S. Marine Corps' Toys for Tots organization. A non-profit that has been helping brighten the holidays since 1947. They accept donations and distribute them to needy children. Most of us are familiar with the "new, unwrapped toy" requirement. But here's a few factoids I bet you didn't know...

• Toys should be new, unwrapped and preferably $10 or above.
• The greatest need is for toys is for children ages 0 to 2 and 10 to 14.
• Toys with a military or law enforcement theme or toys containing candy or chemicals are not distributed by Toys for Tots.

It's worth noting here that toys deemed inappropriate are not wasted, they just aren't distributed by the Marines. Instead they donate them to other charities.

For more information contact your nearest local Toys for Tots campaign office.