Bunting Bearings’ Holiday Heart: 6 Years of Lighting Up Lives Through WTOL’s Gift of Joy
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Cheers to cherished holiday moments filled with good food and great gifts this holiday season!
At Bunting Bearings, we craft precision bearings that keep industries spinning smoothly. But when the holiday season rolls around, our focus shifts to something even more essential: keeping families’ spirits high and kids’ eyes wide with wonder. For the sixth year in a row, our Holland, Ohio, team is diving headfirst into WTOL 11’s beloved Gift of Joy drive, partnering with Lucas County Children’s Services to deliver pure, unfiltered holiday magic.
As the holiday season approaches, it’s crucial to reflect on the spirit of giving. This year, we are not just participating in a charity drive; we are actively engaging with our community. Each year, the Gift of Joy drive inspires countless individuals and businesses to join forces in making a difference. The emotional impact of receiving a gift during the holiday season is immeasurable, especially for children in need. Studies show that these small acts of kindness can foster a sense of belonging and hope, which is vital during challenging times.
The Magic Behind the Moments: Our 2025 Commitment
This year, we’re sponsoring three families—impacting 8-12 children from newborns to teens. Each kid receives 2-3 thoughtfully selected gifts tailored to their wishes (bikes for the adventurers, art kits for the creators, cozy books for dreamers), plus a full holiday feast loaded with turkeys, hams, fresh sides, and desserts that scream “family table.” It’s not just stuff under the tree; it’s normalcy, hope, and a reminder that someone out there cares deeply.
Moreover, the selection of gifts is not taken lightly. Our team carefully considers the interests and needs of each child. For instance, we prioritize educational toys that encourage learning and creativity. A bike isn’t just a gift; it’s an invitation to explore the world outside and engage with peers. Similarly, art kits can ignite a lifelong passion for creativity, providing a constructive outlet for emotions and thoughts. Each gift symbolizes more than just a material item; it represents our commitment to nurturing the dreams and aspirations of young minds.
As our dedicated team member Phillip Henzler shares:
“It’s the joy and, hopefully, the families being able to have something under the tree… It’s just a small part on our part to give back.”
Phillip’s words capture the essence of why we do this. In the rush of production deadlines and global supply chains, these acts ground us. They’re a collective “thank you” to the Toledo community that’s supported us for decades.
A Timeless Tradition with 2025 Twists
What started as a modest team brainstorm in 2020 has grown into a cherished ritual. We’ve seen the impact firsthand: Shy smiles turning into belly laughs, parents exhaling in relief, and kids clutching their first “big” gift. This year, Santa himself dropped by a prep session, booming: “He has gifts for somebody”—a nod that wealth doesn’t dictate worthiness. It’s about equity in joy.
The joy evident on the faces of the families we support is our greatest reward. Witnessing a shy child slowly open up as they unwrap their gift is a beautiful reminder of why we participate in this initiative. These moments reinforce the idea that every child deserves a reason to celebrate the holiday season. This year, our team has even gathered testimonials from families who have participated in the past, sharing how these gifts impacted their lives.
Fun fact: Our “gift squad” (shoutout to volunteers like Kim, Jordan, and the whole crew) spends weeks shopping, wrapping, and delivering. We even tie in sustainability—opting for eco-friendly packaging and locally sourced meal ingredients to align with our commitment to responsible manufacturing.
In addition to the material gifts, we also focus on the overall experience of giving. Our volunteers, including team members and their families, create a festive atmosphere during wrapping sessions, complete with holiday music and treats. This not only enhances team bonding but also reinforces the sense of community that underpins our initiative. By celebrating together, we are not just giving gifts; we are building lasting relationships.
Why Community Giving Fuels Our Future
At Bunting, we believe strong communities build resilient businesses. This drive isn’t PR; it’s purpose. It attracts talent who share our values (recent hires cite our giving as a top perk!), strengthens local ties, and reminds us that precision engineering starts with precise care for people.
Furthermore, our community giving has a ripple effect. When people see companies like Bunting Bearings actively contributing to the welfare of others, it inspires them to get involved. Many employees express their gratitude for being part of an organization that prioritizes social responsibility. This culture of giving often extends beyond the holiday season, leading to year-round initiatives where our employees volunteer their time and resources to various local charities.
Stats that warm the heart:
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- 6 Years Strong: Over 50 families supported since 2020.
- 2025 Impact: 24-36 gifts + 3 full meals delivered.
- Broader Reach: WTOL’s drive aims to gift every child in Lucas County foster care—thousands touched annually.
We also track our impact in tangible ways. For example, this year, we plan to distribute care packages that include essential items like clothing and hygiene products alongside toys. This holistic approach ensures that families not only receive joy during the holidays but also the necessities they need for everyday life. Each contribution builds a stronger, more resilient community.
Join the Joy—Act Now for 2025!
The best part? You can be part of this to0. WTOL 11’s Downtown Gift Drop is located at 730 N. Summit St., Toledo. Bring new, unwrapped toys for ages 0-18—no gift too small! Can’t make it? Mail donations or shop our WTOL wishlist online.
If you are looking for more ways to contribute, consider organizing your own donation drive in your neighborhood or workplace. Collecting toys, clothing, or food items can significantly impact those in need. Every little effort counts, and the collective power of community involvement can lead to transformative change. Together, we can create a more inclusive holiday experience for everyone.
Ready to amplify the cheer? Follow us on social for behind-the-scenes, share your stories in the comments, or reach out to partner on future initiatives—bunting@buntingbearings.com.
Here’s to holidays that spin with kindness. From our family to yours, merry everything!
As we come together this holiday season, let us remember the importance of kindness and compassion. The impact of our efforts can resonate far beyond the gifts we give, fostering a sense of unity and support in our community. Let’s continue to spread cheer, not just during this festive time, but throughout the entire year. Our actions today can inspire hope and joy for tomorrow.
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