• Posted: February 28, 2023
• Beacon Therapeutics, better communities, IBEW Local 134, James Valleyfield, Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Michelle Maxia, socks for soldiers, Toy Box Connection

In 2008, Michelle Maxia founded Toy Box Connection with the primary goal of donating gently used toys to children in need. Over the years, the nonprofit organization has evolved into much more. Working to support domestic violence survivors, human trafficking survivors, veterans, and others, Toy Box connects items like toys, clothing, food and mattresses, with those who need them.

The importance of a strong support system

Michelle’s, once small, nonprofit has grown steadily since beginning almost 15 years ago. But it wouldn’t be where it is today without the support of its dedicated volunteers.

“I am nothing without my volunteers. They are the wind beneath my wings. Without them, Toy Box does not exist, ” said Maxia. “I can’t give them enough credit because they show up week after week, year after year, giving of their time to make this happen.”

Michelle also emphasized the important role that local unions, including IBEW Local 134, plays in offering their resources and assistance.

“These unions are some of the most generous, giving their time, talent, and money to help other people,” said Maxia. “If our lights are out, or we broke our faucet they just show up. I try to pay them, and they laugh at me and say, ‘are you kidding me? This is what we do.’ I can’t say enough about the union families.”

Proof that Toy Box is serving its purpose

Though Michelle experiences many moments that show her that Toy Box Connection is serving its purpose, there is one in particular that sticks out. One afternoon when a woman was dropping off toys donated from a drive at her work, she also offered to donate 13 infant mattresses. At the time Toy Box had no current need or room for the mattresses, Michelle was compelled to accept them.

Later that afternoon, Michelle contacted Peggy from Beacon Therapeutics to let them know that they had more donations for them. On the same call, Michelle asked if Peggy knew anyone who could use the 13 mattresses. Astonished, Peggy asked her to repeat the number of mattresses and Michelle reiterated that she had 13 available. In awe, Peggy explained that she had just left the homeless shelter, where 13 babies were sleeping on the floor. It’s moments like these that show Michelle she’s part of something much bigger than herself.

Supporting military veterans with Socks for Soldiers

This year, IBEW Local 134 Business Representative James Valleyfield connected Powering Chicago with the Toy Box Connection to make Powering Chicago’s Socks for Soldiers event the most successful year yet. Since 2015, Socks for Soldiers has given around $150,000 in socks, t-shirts and underwear to homeless veterans at the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center on the city’s west side.

“I think in this world; we can’t ever let anyone feel hopeless that the basic human needs can’t be met,” said Maxia.

Learn more about Toy Box Connection and how you can support its important work.