A Donation Challenge for All Ages
By: Hillary Bradbury, Director of Marketing & Communications
I love the holiday season, but the days following can feel a bit overwhelming with all the
stuff. As a parent of two energetic boys, the new year can bring a desperate need to reclaim space and order.
After the holiday gift-giving, and multiple celebrations, it began to feel increasingly crowded in January. As a long-time Goodwill donor, we’ve shared with our kids the importance of passing usable items along. A few years ago, I found a way to make tackling the post-holiday organizing in a fun, family-friendly way. That’s how our “toy recycle program” started!
A Simple, Kid-Friendly Decluttering Tradition
Each child selects a set number of toys to donate, based on their age. My ten-year-old, for example, chooses at least ten items to pass along. The rules are simple:
Toys must be in good condition.
Broken items are recycled or discarded and don’t count toward the total.
The kids make the choices.
This gives them a sense of ownership and autonomy over the process.
What started as a way to create space has grown into a meaningful tradition. Here’s why it works so well:
- It’s manageable. The age-based system gives each child a clear, achievable goal.
- It’s empowering. My boys love being in charge of choosing which toys they’re ready to say goodbye to.
- It nurtures generosity. They’ve learned that donating helps others, giving their toys a second life with another child.
- It makes a difference. Donated items to Goodwill help fund programs that empower people to reach their highest potential.
What I love most is that this system works with more than just toys. It’s a great starting point for a larger decluttering project like cleaning out a garage, closet or attic. Setting a specific number, such as five, ten or fifteen items, makes the process less overwhelming and sets a clear objective to accomplish.
If your home feels a little overcrowded after the holidays, give this tradition a try. It’s a simple, meaningful way to declutter, involve the kids, and make a positive impact in your community.
Ready to start decluttering?
Drop off your donations at one of our convenient locations today.
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