The holiday season is fast approaching, and UAB IT is kicking off the 30th annual UAB Toy Drive with a host of events to get everyone in the giving spirit.
For 30 years, the UAB Toy Drive has collected new, unwrapped toys for children in need throughout the Birmingham metro area. Toys are donated to the U.S. Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots campaign and will be collected from Nov. 13 to Dec. 12.
This year, you can drop off toys at collection boxes around campus, or purchase a toy from one of our wish lists:
To celebrate the 30th anniversary, UAB IT has several events planned.
Searching for Santa
The big man from up north will be appearing on campus Wednesday, Nov. 29, to snap selfies and share information about the Toy Drive and other events. Look for him on the UAB IT golf cart, at Hill Student Center and a few surprise locations on campus.
Teddy Bear Toss
UAB Athletics has generously partnered with UAB IT for a second year to host the Teddy Bear Toss at the Blazers’ home game against Southern Mississippi on Friday, Dec. 1. Anyone who brings a teddy bear or other stuffed animal to the game can get a $10 ticket at the gate and will be able to throw the teddy bear on the court at halftime. If you don’t have time to grab a bear before the game, the UAB Bookstore will have a variety to choose from. You can shop for a UAB spirit bear at Hill Student Center or at their vendor stall in Bartow Arena.
Santa Claus will be at Bartow Arena that night for photos before the game and to help collect the teddy bears at halftime.
30 for 30 challenge
Finally, UAB IT is inviting fellow units, schools, and departments to participate in our grand challenge 30 for 30. Each pledge will bring in 30 toys for to give to a child in need. Toys will be collected on Dec. 12. To sign up with your group, fill out the Microsoft form.
Final collection
The final Toy Drive Day is Wednesday, Dec. 12, at Cudworth Hall, when the U.S. Marines will pick up all the donations for their Toys for Tots drive.