Since before I was even a parent, I knew that I wanted to teach my kids Charity. After losing Alexander, it became an unbridled passion to do something good in his name.
In turn, once a year, for the past four years, we have taken new toys to those in need. This year, we decided to give very close to home and chose House of Lazarus as our gift recipient.
After sending out a request for help, a bunch of people and companies stepped up and offered to give to those in need. They asked for nothing in return besides being able to “Give The Gift of Giving”. As you will see, giving to those in need is one of the many things that make 2 Blue Ducks, PlaSmart, Fisher Price and Cloud b stand out as exemplary companies.
2 Blue Ducks
2 Blue Ducks is a distributor of childrens products based out of Toronto, Ontario that does a lot of philanthropy work. So much so that they have an entire page dedicated to it! For this years toy round-up, they sent us not one, not two but THREE Discoveroo Fruit Music Sets!
It was great to see how this toy related to kids of vastly different ages (7 months to 4 years). They all loved the vibrant colours and sounds and the ease of play was evident. The percussion instruments included; Apple Xylophone, Lemon Maraca, Lime and Melon Castanet and a Pear Guiro. As a parent, I was pleased that the toys were made from durable (plantation) wood and that they were clearly identified as conforming to the Safety Requirements and Canadian Regulations.
If you are looking for a unique product that will stand the test of time, check out all the other beautiful products that they offer from companies that put special emphasis on environmentally friendly, green materials that are as safe and sustainable as possible.
Connect with 2 Blue Ducks Website | Facebook | Twitter
PlaSmart
PlaSmart Inc. is a global toy distributor located in Ottawa, Ontario. They seek out interesting, one-of-a-kind toys that meet their “smart, simple, and fun” philosophy and avoid toys that are difficult to understand or operate.
The newest game in their arsenal is “Squashed” that was featured in this years Time For Kids 2013 Holiday Toy Guide. The purpose of the game is to be the last pawn on the cube. Sounds easy enough. Ha! Even though Max has never played it, he says it’s his favourite. I think he just likes to say “Squashed”. Recommended for ages 6+ and 2-4 players.
Watch this quick video to get a idea of how it’s played.
It was created by Nicolas Metzler when he was just sixteen years old and is just one of the many innovative games that they distribute along with the Original Doodle Art and the PlasmaCar.
Connect with PlaSmart Website | Facebook | Twitter
Fisher Price
Uncle Andrew and I played with Fisher Price when we were kids. We had the record player, A-frame and Camper. The reason I know this is not because I have a great memory but because The Kids are now playing with all our old toys and some new ones like “Poppa’s Barn” (pictured). We have always owned Fisher Price toys and will continue to do so.
The Fisher Price I-Jig Interactive Puzzle is the unique interactive electronic puzzle and game system with three modes of learning and discovery. The Find & Seek Game mode helps teach kids about memory, matching, colors, objects, counting and sounds and the Discovery Time Game mode provides discovery games with each puzzle that enhance the fun and learning.
Connect with Fisher Price Website | Facebook | Twitter
Cloud b
Tranquil Turtle from Cloud b combines both sight and sound features while projecting gentle underwater images and playing the soothing sounds of the sea. The 23-minute timer ensures complete darkness and silence during child’s deep sleep. This comforting combination makes for a super serene sleep space.
Since seeing this toy, The Kids have been captivated with watching turtles lay eggs, on the beach, near water and then watching the eggs hatch. In that order. Preferably all in one video. Who knew that three year olds could be so particular. I don’t mind. I’m so happy that they want to discover more about the world around them and this toy was the catalyst.
Not only does Cloud b support charitable initiatives like this but you can too! By supporting this company, a percentage of all Cloud b sales will be donated to the Children’s Wish Foundation. This is the type of company that I want to give my hard earned dollars too.
Connect with Cloud b Website | Facebook | Twitter
Personal Contributions
And last but not least, personal contributions from my BFF Rene and Divorced Doula.
There are no words to describe how much I appreciate everyone’s help. Not only those that gave but those that shared and encouraged. I hope you know who you are. If not, I need to do a better job of telling you how much I appreciate having you in my life.
What Do You Give Thanks For?
What a great and wonderful thing to have done. It feels so good to give, but even more important you have made a difference.
Great lesson for the kiddos, and very inspiring for all….
What an amazing thing you do every year – and awesome that the companies/people donated the items! Merry Christmas to you and your family
ashley recently posted…2013 Holiday Gift Guide
Awesome – what a great thing for these companies to be a part of, and so easy for them to do so, thanks to you! I bet those in your local community are really going to appreciate the great gifts this Xmas!
Now that is awesome!! If only this could be for birthdays and other momentous occasions for children too!
WHAT A WONDERFUL IDEA
i give thanks for living in a peaceful nation
Thanks for highlighting these companies! It’s good to know that they are giving back!
What a great thing to do with your kids. Such a lovely life lesson that will stick with them forever!
tennille recently posted…Food Bank Friday Challenge #49
I love to hear about people helping people. 🙂 Happy holidays!
What a lovely thing to do! I have found many people are happy to help and donate but don’t want to organize, again so nice of you to do that! it. Great that you got such a positive response. These are lessons your kids will carry with them their whole life! Kudos Sarah!
I would rather buy from such companies
I would much rather support a company that helps people in need than those who don’t. Thank you, too, for all you do for your followers! 🙂
Dear Nena,
I am honoured that each and every one of you comes back time and time again to support the initiatives that are close to my heart. It really makes a difference. While I might not always comment, I always notice. I hope you know how much you are appreciated.
Besos, Sarah
Your great sense of humor keeps me coming back! Thank you! 🙂
It’s great to support companies that give back and these are one’s I buy from anyway!
Thank you for sharing this list! I’ve never heard of the tranquil turtle, but that is definitely a toy I need to get for my nephews.
Lisa T. recently posted…Blue Peacoat with Puff Sleeves and Gold Buttons
this is just a wonderful list of wonderful sponsors
I give thanks for my son and my community I give monthly to the food bank and the inn of the good shepard… you never know when you will need this yourself
Just AWESOME!
I think it is fabulous of these firms (and of you!) to give back to communities and those in need. This is a very special time of year and I do believe that people are more generous around Christmas time than at any other time of the year. I am sure these gifts will be much appreciated by the recipients and bring much joy and fun too.
I’m happy to see more business participating in charity and pay it forward type events. Butterball did a great job with their Holiday Heroes, and Westjet made me all misty with their holiday hijinks too.
Anne @ FoodRetro recently posted…No-Bake Maple Granola Clusters
so amazing to here about the companies who are taking the time to give back to people who need it ! especially during the holiday season. so heart warming
Its always nice to hear about acts of kindness, its inspiring.
Companies like this are so special because of their acts of kindness.It was wonderful of you to enlighten us on the names of these companies that give to the needy without a thought of any reward.They should be commended for their wonderful deeds.
Wanda Tracey recently posted…Would You Like to Go on a 5,000km/3,100mi International Road trip?
I think I’m more likely to purchase from a company that give back to those in need and to other charities.
It’s companies like these that make a difference in the world
this is just so inspirational thanks for sharing
Truly wonderful! Inspiring!
Maria medeiros recently posted…Holiday Yummy Delights
How inspiring and uplifting what a great write up! Making me think of those involved in the Ice Storm still without power and particularly children and pets
All these are so unique and fun looking. The generosity of the companies make them even more appealing.
Stephanie LaPlante recently posted…FunDayMental Friday
my hats off to all the companies that contributed for the kids alone and not to benefit
I had no idea that so many companies gave toys, etc,, to children. I especially liked the Blue Ducks for giving toddlers the means to make music. Kudos to these companies for their charity and to you for telling us about them!
Your charity and warmth is admirable! What a great post full of heart! Also, I had no idea so many big companies gave to charities. What a wonderful post, thanks for sharing so much!
The Funster recently posted…LeapPad from LeapFrog Review
This is awesome, love this. Great to see that people and companies step forward to provide donations for the charity to help other out and put a smile on people faces.
I love this so much!
We need more kind, caring people – consumers and companies, alike!
Thank you for sharing! (and caring!) 😀
Peady recently posted…Happiness is…
What’s sad is not many people realize these amazing brands give so much of themselves for the good. I think it’s great you are bringing attention to this, that not all corporations are strictly about making money off us. Some care about causes close to them and voice that. Great share!
jodi shaw recently posted…Buying the Perfect Prom Dress
Here is a clap of hands for those companies that extend a helping hand