A growing number of high school sports teams in the Big Central Conference will be collecting toys now through Friday, November 27th – Black Friday – to give to local children’s hospitals and families in need.
The drive is being organized by the LEP Beyond Sports Foundation, whose co-founder and President is Dave LePoidevin, the first-year head coach at Bound Brook.
LePoidevin began Beyond Sports last year with the idea of getting student-athletes to be more involved in local communities to “give back and get involved.”
“We have volunteered at veterans’ homes, senior living facilities, food banks and events for autism,” says LePoidevin. “The kids open their minds and hearts to a purpose that is bigger than themselves. They become inspired to do more.”
“It is a meaningful experience for the kids,” he adds. “It is also incredible to watch the kids create skills necessary to help them succeed both on and off the field.”
Central Jersey Sports Radio’s Mike Pavlichko spoke with LePoidevin about the idea behind the toy drive and how it all works. Hear the interview below:
Among the participating schools are:
- Bound Brook Football
- North Hunterdon Football
- Bernards Football
- Sayreville Football
- Manville Football
- Middlesex Boys Soccer
Rutgers football also will be collecting toys, and will make a “gift basket” of their own toward the cause.
Dates of collections and drop-off locations will vary. Please check with the school or team with which you wish to leave your donation.