Play It Forward  Initiative

Toys change lives. You can too.

PLAY IT FORWARD

Help us put 250,000 toys into the hands of children—because joy is worth sharing.

At Giving Children Hope, play builds confidence, nurtures creativity, and helps children grow through joy with family, friends, and themselves. Launching in early 2025, we will distribute thousands of toys meaningfully over the next 14 months.

Play It Forward is our community-powered program that brings toys, love, and meaningful experiences to children across Southern California. Whether through a large-scale event, a family-centered event, or a local partnership, Play It Forward creates moments that matter.

This movement, in proud partnership with Toys for Tots, puts the power of play in the hands of children who need it most.

Why Play Matters

Play It Forward is more than just giving toys—it’s about restoring childhood wonder, building connections, and showing kids they are seen and loved. We measure impact across four core areas:

  • We track the number of children served and gather feedback on emotional response—because joy is something you can feel and measure.

  • We evaluate how play promotes social, emotional, and cognitive development—especially in kids facing hardship.

  • We count the partnerships, volunteers, and donors who come together—because this is a shared mission with ripple effects.

  • We celebrate unique, creative experiences designed by you. Use our facilitator's guide or bring your own idea to life.

How It Works:
You can engage with Play It Forward in three ways:

  • Play It Forward Experience

    Create joy in motion! Host or attend a community play event as a partnering agency or a volunteer. We’ll provide a facilitator’s guide to help you design an experience that sparks imagination and brings families together.

    Explore the Experience

  • Toy Grant for Nonprofits

    For nonprofits, civic agencies, and community groups, you’re invited to apply for toys that will elevate your programs or outreach events. Grants support experiences for 1,000 to 10,000 children, helping you bring your creative vision to life.

    Apply for a Toy Grant

  • Become a Sponsor

    Help us reach our bold goal of 250,000 toys for kids in need. For $5, you can impact a child, and your gift will transform into joy. Sponsors receive recognition at events and at our annual Join the Journey fundraiser in the Fall of 2025.

    Become a Sponsor

❤️ Why Now?

There’s a child today who’s never felt the pure delight of play. You can change that.

Every gift, event, or toy shared through Play It Forward is a simple act of love—with a powerful impact.

Click the button above to learn more about sponsorship and donation information.

“I shared a toy with my cousin - he has battled cancer. I’m happy that he is doing better.”

— Dominic R., 11 years old

Play It Forward Partners

Questions or Ready to Sponsor?

We’d love to connect and explore the best partnership opportunity for you.

Contact:
Chelsea Bergfeld
Director of Advancement
CBergfeld@gchope.org

Together, let’s put love into action and joy into the hands of thousands of children.