Judging by the sheer amount of toys under a frosty Christmas tree Sunday morning at Quadratec's West Chester, Pennsylvania headquarters, one would think the big guy himself donned his red outfit and made a special delivery.
But, in reality, there was no such sleigh sighting. Instead, scores of people unloaded the toys from all types of Jeeps, and placed under the tree for donation to Toys For Tots during our final Jeeps and Java event of 2019.
"This Toys for Tots campaign is something we've now done for several years at our last Jeeps and Java of each season," said Quadratec Outside Events Marketer Cory Cole. "That's the big reason why December's event is a bit earlier than in other months. It is always great to watch that toy pile grown thanks to our generous customers. It definitely helps make someone's holiday season a bit better."
Besides the toy drop off, everyone who attends Jeeps and Java is also able to grab some doughnuts and hot coffee—which was especially welcome Sunday to help blunt the frigid morning cold weather. Kids played games, while many others acquired raffle tickets for showing up, as well as for donating to support organizations like the Michael Strange Foundation, Shriners Children's Hospitals and Providence Animal Shelter. Providence even brought along a puppy named Cutlass who it was hoping would be adopted.
Throughout the morning, more and more Jeeps arrived to the event—including several of the new Jeep Gladiator trucks, alongside older YJ Wranglers and XJ Cherokees. Even a Willys, complete with Bantam trailer, stopped in to join the party. And as more vehicles arrived, more and more hoods went up, causing crowds to form around various machines while owners described various modifications.
Because, in the end, that is one of the biggest goals of each Jeeps and Java event—to help generate and fuel the passion of all kinds of Jeep enthusiasts, while also playing a role in helping out the community; whether through our partner organizations, or by food and toy donations.
Just as a reminder, there are no Jeeps & Java events scheduled for January or February, but the event will return in March for an all new year of coffee, doughnuts, games and many other exciting surprises.
—Matt Konkle
Quadratec Channel Editor
