Toys for Tots receives $100k from anonymous donor

November marks the start of the holiday season, and no other venue has more holiday spirit than The Forum Carlsbad, where a remarkable tradition continues to bring joy to children across San Diego County.

From 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. Wednesday, the U.S. Marine Corps will assist an anonymous donor — who has made a $100,000 donation for the seventh consecutive year — in boxing and loading hundreds of toys from Geppetto’s to kick off the U.S. Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots campaign.

The owner of Geppetto’s Toys, Brian Miller, says the annual event is more than just a donation; it is also a story of trust and community.

“Seven years ago, I received a call out of the blue from the philanthropist’s assistant telling me that his boss would like to buy some toys for Toys for Tots and could they come in before hours to make some selections. ,” Miller said.

“I was skeptical at first. I asked to meet him ahead of time (during the day, not before hours!) and took a small deposit to show their sincerity. Now, when I look back, I chuckle at that, given what this has become over the past seven years!”

Miller’s skepticism over the anonymous donor has long since dissipated and the partnership has blossomed to a San Diego holiday tradition.

“It’s a wonderful feel-good moment that we can help this individual realize his vision of providing so many quality toys to children in need.” Miller said. “We try to spread the word about this generous act, as it inspires others to give as well.”

How does one gather $100,000 of toys? In previous years, Miller and the donor’s associate would hand-pick toys from Geppetto’s shelves, filling up shopping carts until they reached the $100,000 mark.

This year, the U.S. Marine Corps will help with the boxing and loading of toys instead.

“As their purchases grew, gradually, our shelves became depleted, and our store’s inventory couldn’t keep up with the random ‘day-of’ selections,” Miller said with a laugh.

“We have created a trusting partnership where we know the types of toys they like to choose. Now I personally prepare selections and make special targeted purchases ahead of time, so we don’t strip our actual shelves of product on this day. 

“However, part of the fun is having the helping Marines select toys for donations that day, and we still do that.”

The toys will be distributed directly to local families in need, with a special focus on military families. “Literally thousands of children are touched by this philanthropy,” Miller says.

Although the donor remains anonymous, Miller says the motivation behind the generosity is clear: “I understand he has a deep respect and admiration for our military and trusts the Toys for Tots program to get the toys into the hands of those who need them most.”

For Miller and his team, this event embodies what Geppetto’s stands for as a local, family-owned business. “We donate toys to hundreds of organizations throughout the year. It’s part of my personal commitment to give back and be a good citizen locally,” he said.

“We try to be supportive of causes and organizations that our customers are supportive of and that surround the neighborhoods where our stores are located. Geppetto’s is a local San Diego company, and we also focus our giving locally. For the Toys for Tots drive, we also contribute hundreds of toys.”

Miller believes in one fundamental truth, especially during the holidays.

“For those of us lucky enough to be in a position to help others in need, keep in mind the spirit of the holiday season and give back to those who aren’t as fortunate.” Miller said.

In other words?

“Pay it forward!”