GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. — For Marine Staff Sergeant Tyree Stevens, the days are divided between operational duties and a heartfelt commitment to spreading joy as the mastermind behind the Toys for Tots Twin Cities operation.
"I have a day job—operational forces during the day—and then we're sort of like Santa's elves at night," shared Stevens.
Stevens serves as the coordinator of the Toys For Tots Program in the Twin Cities. His passion for generosity and meticulous planning shines through.
"It's nice to give something to someone who has nothing. It's actually so much better," he emphasizes, underlining the profound joy in providing for those in need.
The path to collecting toys hasn't been without its challenges. "So I thought the easiest part was gonna be getting toys. The hardest part was getting toys," admits Stevens, reflecting on the hurdles faced in amassing donations.
His journey to the Twin Cities comes after significant success in New York, where his dream was to establish a notable presence for Toys for Tots.
"My goal and dream here was to let everyone know that Toys for Tots is not just here to be supported but to help," he explains. "When I first took over, they collected 206,000 toys. I took over and we collected 240,000. After that, it's not enough for me. I want to give back," asserts Stevens, setting an ambitious goal of hitting a minimum of 300,000 toys.
Stevens' childhood experiences, growing up amidst hardship with ten siblings, deeply influenced his commitment to giving back. "It was tough for us; we didn't have much. Just being alive and being able to spend time with family was just enough," he shares."I have my mom to thank for who I am, as well as the Marine Corps. I've met a lot of great people who are generous and willing to give back to the community. They have a lot to do with who I am why give back so much."
Reflecting on his upbringing, Stevens said he was focused only on the simple things. "We were just happy to be part of a family. So, I think this is subconsciously why it's so important to me to give back to those kids that don't have that."
His perspective now serves as a guiding light, influencing his mission and forming a crucial part of his identity. "It really does play a big part of who you are, you know?" he reflects, emphasizing the heartwarming experience of giving to those who have little.
Stevens' dreams are accompanied by wisdom, not just for himself but for others witnessing their aspirations come true. "Keep staying the course. You know, things change. Things are not what it seems like. You're gonna do great things," he encourages.
In the journey of transforming dreams into tangible joy, Staff Sergeant Tyree Stevens stands as a testament to the power of generosity and resilience, one toy at a time.
If you're interested in making a donation, you can drop off a new, unwrapped toy at KARE 11's studios through Dec. 13.
KARE 11 is located at the corner of Olson Memorial Highway and General Mills Boulevard in Golden Valley.
The tent is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.
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