Dec. 16, 2014
THE FLATS – Thanks to the charitable donations of fans, alumni, supporters and athletics staff, Georgia Tech student-athletes collected nearly $11,000 and more than 2,400 toys for the 2014 Michael Isenhour Toy Drive.
All of the monies and the majority of the toys collected were donated to the Atlanta Children’s Shelter. Approximately 300 toys were donated to Mission on the Move, while another 100 toys were donated to the Ronald McDonald House associated with Egleston Children’s Hospital.
In comparison, last year’s toy drive netted approximately $6,500 in monetary donations and 1,500 toys.
Members of the Georgia Tech Student-Athlete Advisory Board made two separate toy deliveries on Dec. 11 and Dec. 16.
“It was a really special morning with us delivering most of our proceeds to such a worthy organization,” said Leah Thomas, Director of the Total Person Program. “Our fans have been so generous and that is why this year’s toy drive was so successful.”
The 14th annual Michael Isenhour Toy Drive kicked off Nov. 15 during the Yellow Jackets’ home football game vs. Clemson at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Student-athletes were stationed at all 10 stadium entry points. Collection bins were also placed inside the lobby of the Edge Building until the second week of December.
All 17 of Georgia Tech’s varsity teams played a role in this year’s toy drive. On Tuesday morning, eight men’s basketball players made the delivery to the Atlanta Children’s Shelter and spent some time playing with the kids.
“Georgia Tech Athletics are absolutely incredible and one of our Shelter angels,” said Sandy Holiday, Executive Director of the Atlanta Children’s Shelter. “Thank you for keeping the shelter in your hearts. I am humbled and grateful to all of you.”
The Toy Drive is named in honor of former Georgia Tech basketball letterman and Student-Athlete Advisory Board member Michael Isenhour, who died in 2002 following a battle with leukemia. Isenhour spearheaded the first Toy Drive in 2001 to help families affected by 9/11, and since then, SAAB has continued the annual project in his memory. Charlie Isenhour, Michael’s father, continues to support the toy drive with a donation each year.
The Michael Isenhour Toy Drive is part of Georgia Tech’s Total Person Program, which was originally conceived by former Tech Director of Athletics Dr. Homer Rice. The Total Person Program is centered on the idea that excellence is a result of a balanced life that encompasses academic excellence, athletic achievement, and personal well-being. Click here for more information on the Total Person Program.
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