Jordan

Meet Jordan. ––  a seventh grader, and a current Toys for Tots Youth Ambassador based out of Region 1, New Jersey.

His journey with giving began at just five years old, when he launched a hot cocoa stand with a simple goal—to earn some spending money. But after a spontaneous conversation and encouragement from his mom, Trinna, that small idea turned into a big mission: supporting Toys for Tots.

That first donation sparked a lasting commitment to giving back. Today, Jordan’s annual cocoa stand has raised over $30,000, and he’s collected thousands of toys for Toys for Tots and CHOP. It’s become a beloved tradition in his community. “It started as something low-key,” his mom, Trinna, said. “Now people expect it every year.”

As Jordan’s involvement grew, so did his impact. He’s donated nearly 300 books to local Title I funded schools and helped lead a school book drive, where students recognized him from previous visits. “A lot of the kids remembered me,” he recalls. “That made it ten times better.”

He also supports his younger brother’s school fundraiser, Penny Wars—a fun, coin-collecting competition that has raised nearly $6,000 in the past two years. Jordan enjoys the excitement and sees it as another way to engage others in giving.

In his role as a Youth Ambassador for Toys for Tots, Jordan helps raise awareness, organize events, and promote service all year long. “It’s not just Christmas,” he says. “You do campaigns year-round.”  He volunteers at community events like local tree lightings and attends monthly Ambassador meetings, which he credits with expanding his ideas and strengthening his leadership skills. “At first I was nervous,” he admits, “but I realized how much I could learn about helping others.”

One standout moment for Jordan was delivering donations in person to a drop-off site. “It just feels so much better to do it yourself,” he says. He’s also seen how gifts can brighten the lives of children in tough situations. “If they’re in the hospital, their mental health probably isn’t great—but surprises from Toys for Tots help them push through.”

Though recognition was never the goal, Jordan has received awards for his book drive and a framed plaque from campaign Coordinators. More meaningful to him is seeing his younger siblings get involved, creating a ripple effect of kindness in his family and community.

This experience as a Toys for Tots Youth Ambassador has changed how Jordan sees the world. “It taught me to put others first,” he says. “You can’t just focus on yourself—you need to think about others to succeed in life.” He encourages other children to join the Youth Ambassador Program: “It helps you grow and become a better person.”

Looking ahead, Jordan hopes Toys for Tots continues to expand—even globally—and plans to stay involved long after his Ambassador term ends.

From a backyard cocoa stand to leading community initiatives, Jordan’s story shows that age is never a limitation when it comes to making a difference. With heart, purpose, and creativity, he’s spreading hope and generosity—one act at a time.