GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. — First Sergeant Ricardo Santos of the Marines exemplifies the multitasking demands faced by those behind the Toys for Tots program, especially during the holiday season.
Time management is important in the Santos household.
“My alarm goes off probably four in the morning,” he shared. "I'm a father of five so I get up. My alarm goes off at probably four in the morning."
Santos' day starts with a rigorous routine.
"I get a workout in before the day gets started because that's part of my intention," he noted.
As an active duty Marine, Santos dedicates his days to various operational tasks on base, emphasizing the necessity of readiness among deployable units.
"We have to maintain a state of readiness because at any given time, they can be called to deploy in our nation's defense," he asserts.
During the holiday season, this dedication extends to Toys for Tots. Santos describes the extensive hours put in by Marines at the warehouse, starting as early as 6 a.m. and sometimes continuing until 9 or 10 p.m.
"I try to put myself at the point of friction," Santos mentions, highlighting his hands-on approach to assist wherever needed, from administrative tasks to coordinating and distributing boxes.
From collecting to sifting, sorting and distributing, there's no downtime during this critical period.
"Once this season really gets going, we're going to work seven days a week for long hours as we need to get the toys collected and then redistributed to the community as needed," Santos stated.
Toys for Tots significantly occupies the schedules of active duty Marines. Santos explained, "I've got about 30 active duty Marines. And Toys for Tots takes about at least half of them away, almost full time."
The gift of time is what binds Santos' multiple responsibilities together, connecting his roles as a Marine, a father, and a community member.
"We are fierce with the forward edge of our nation's defense, and we're willing to help in that way. But we're also part of the local community," he remarks.
This dedication to giving time, waking up early and putting in the extra effort reflects the timeless essence of their commitment. "That's who we are," Santos concluded.
Santos' story is one of many who exude selflessness and commitment woven into the fabric of those who serve to enrich their local communities, making the gift of giving time timeless.