Janessa

Janessa’s path as a Toys for Tots Youth Ambassador has been nothing short of inspiring—a journey that blends personal growth, deep community commitment, and a passion for service that continues to inspire everyone around her.

Everything began with a text from her mom, gauging her interest in attending the Toys for Tots Youth Ambassador summer camp. Unbeknownst to Janessa, her mother had also already submitted her application for the Youth Ambassador Program for Region 5, Texas. “It was a done deal before I even knew it,” Janessa laughed. That spontaneous decision would go on to shape the next several years of her life.

As a Youth Ambassador, Janessa quickly became a passionate and hands-on advocate. She set up donation boxes at her school and spent weekends bundled up roadside collecting donations with her dad. “Even if we didn’t collect much, it was about being out there together, making memories,” she recalled. Her motivation wasn’t measured by the number of toys collected, but by the impact made and the experiences shared.

 Service comes naturally to Janessa. “I’ve always said that I love giving back to my community because my community has given so much to me.” She brings creativity, compassion, and encouragement into every space she enters—always looking for ways to uplift others, share ideas, and make people feel seen and supported.

Janessa’s leadership and heart for service were recognized Nationally when she was named National Youth Ambassador of the Year—a standout moment in her journey. But even with the accolades, it’s the hands-on moments that resonate most deeply with her.

Distributing toys for the first time this past year gave her completely different perspective. “Seeing parents’ faces when they picked up gifts was incredibly moving. It reminded me why we do this.”

Through her work with Toys for Tots, Janessa says her entire mindset has shifted. “Before, I was all about winning and achieving. But now, I’m just focused on doing my best and making a difference. I tell people, ‘You never fail—you just succeed differently.’” This philosophy guides her involvement in other leadership roles with FFA and 4-H and shapes her vision for college and beyond.

For Janessa, the Toys for Tots Youth Ambassador Program isn’t just a seasonal initiative—it’s a year-round mission of children helping children. “We’re changing lives one smile at a time. We’re not just giving out toys—we’re giving out hope.” She believes the Program’s power lies in its people and their shared purpose. “We’re not competing. We’re all here for the same reason. We all want to make a difference within our communities.  That’s what sets it apart—there’s just so much camaraderie.”

To anyone considering becoming a Youth Ambassador, her advice is simple: “Do it. It’s the best thing I’ve ever done.”

As she plans for her exciting next chapter in college, Janessa has no intention of stepping away from Toys for Tots. Whether it’s eventually returning as a Youth Mentor, helping run meetings, or speaking at events, she’s committed to staying involved with the Toys for Tots Youth Ambassador Program. “This Program has shaped who I am, and I want to keep giving back. Because once you’re part of Toys for Tots, it never leaves you.”