Kymberly

Kymberly’s journey as a Toys for Tots Youth Ambassador tells a story of heart, purpose, and the quiet power of showing up.

When her father, a local Toys for Tots Coordinator in Region 7, Arkansas, introduced her to the role, she found herself unexpectedly thrust into leadership. Rather than shy away, she chose to embrace it and turn it into a deeply meaningful chapter of her life.

 Collaborating with her father, she spent countless hours fundraising outside local Walmarts, distributing flyers on street corners, and volunteering her time freely to help children and families in need. “We’d wave at cars, collect donations, and hand out flyers for people to take to their churches,” she said. “It was cold sometimes, but those are some of my favorite memories—just being out there with my brother, knowing it mattered. Giving back to others just felt right.”

One of her proudest moments came during a local festival where she helped collect and distribute nearly 400 books single-handedly. Kymberly explains how much she enjoys distributing books and especially appreciates the Toys for Tots Literacy Program, as it helps build a strong foundation for children to go on to achieve successful futures.

Kymberly’s efforts extend beyond book drives and distributions. She worked behind the scenes too—reaching out to libraries and even partnering with the local postal service to collect undelivered books and packages. “The libraries had too many books, and the post office gave us things they couldn’t return. It was amazing how willing people were to help when you just asked.”

She’s also a firm believer in the importance of young people getting involved. “If we don’t take care of our elders and our kids, then what kind of youth are we? They were our past—we are the future. Hopefully, we can raise better kids for tomorrow.”

For anyone considering applying to become a Youth Ambassador, her advice is clear: “Don’t let your doubts consume you. There will be hard times, and some people will ignore you. But I always give 100% to whatever I do. This Program has given me the chance to be an example, not just look up to one. And that’s the most rewarding part.”

As she ages out of the Youth Ambassador role, Kymberly has no plans to step away from her work with Toys for Tots. She’ll be moving into a new position as an Assistant Coordinator, continuing to serve her local community alongside her father.

Looking ahead, her hopes are simple, yet powerful: “That we get to keep giving out to more children and more families, because everyone deserves a little more magic in their life.”