Athletes Step Up to Spread Holiday Cheer

The City of Albuquerque’s Parks & Recreation Department (PRD) wrapped up its 3rd annual Toys for Tots Holiday Toy Drive today, announcing the successful collection of gifts donated by community members throughout a month of events hosted and organized by PRD and its partners. The City formally presented 1,064 toys to Toys for Tots during a press conference held at the Los Altos Park Community Room.

Throughout November and early December, families, athletes, and volunteers contributed toys at four sporting events including softball, pickleball, tennis, and disc golf tournaments, helping ensure local children receive gifts this holiday season. In addition, the Albuquerque Running Fiesta, which put on its first marathon/running event on November 2, also donated toys to the campaign.

“Every toy collected represents a family in our City that will feel a little more joy this holiday season,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “I’m grateful to everyone who donated and to our Parks & Recreation team for leading this effort for Albuquerque kids.”

“This program has become one of our favorite traditions,” said PRD Director David Simon. “The City’s athletes really stepped up turned their love for sports into concern for others.”

“I love the ‘one team’ concept with the different sports who participated in this toy drive,” said Toys for Tots Coordinator Gunnery Sargent Fiaseu. “This is a great thing we’re doing for the community to ensure that kids and families have something to look forward to this holiday season. I can’t thank you enough! We are honored to team up with [the City].”

After the press conference, City staff and volunteers helped load the donated toys into Toys for Tots boxes and onto distribution trucks. This effort highlights Albuquerque’s dedication to supporting families, strengthening community connections, and bringing holiday magic to children citywide.