Just before Christmas, the Colton Lions Club held their 5th Annual Christmas Toy “Give-A-Way” to the delight of approximately 300 children who came to the neighborhood pocket park at 5th and N Street, which is un-officially known as Pepper’s Park.
Starting in the early morning hours about a dozen members of the Colton Lions, led by President Carlos Araiza, came to set-up tables and sort out the hundreds of toys that were donated and collected for this popular event. In anticipation of the 8:00am starting time, many kids who came with their parents were already lined-up from the Pepper Park “starting point.” This line of excited kids extended down 5th street and around the corner along West N Street. “The turn-out of kids was terrific,” exclaimed Evelyn Lopez, Lions Club Secretary, who added, “And we were definitely ready with the toys, tables, and decorations.”
While talking with President Carlos, it was learned that the event was very successful because of the volunteer help of the Lions Club members, and the donations provided by several individuals and organizations. “We were happy to receive the support of so many people,” smiled Carlos. According to a couple of board members, the toys were donated by Lions Club members, CR&R Trash Haulers, Living Spaces, Colton Chamber of Commerce, Pizzadilly, and many Colton residents. “Every donation helps,” commented Soledad Morden, one of the founding members of the Colton Lions Club. Soledad was the main person who checked-in the kids at the starting point, and kept the operation moving smoothly.
For those who may not be aware, the Colton Lions Club is one of the more active service clubs in Colton and recent years the club has developed a very positive reputation for community-minded involvement, including the toy Give-A-Way, clean-up service projects, special city events, and participation in several city events. “We believe in helping the community,” says Cynthia Calderilla, a long-time member who went on to elaborate, “Whenever there is a holiday, a charitable cause, or special event, the Colton Lions are usually on the scene taking part and making headlines for the benefit of the Colton Community.”
When asked about the Annual Toy Drive and Give-A-Way, Calderillla responded, “We want to help the children of Colton, especially those who might need a boost of Christmas spirit.” As Past President, Calderilla mentioned that the Colton Lions have remained strong and continues to find new ways to help the community. Recently, the Colton Lions teamed-up with CITYTALK w/DrG for the All-Church Community Breakfast, and helped with the first annual Earp Day event. They also participated in the Colton Christmas Parade.
Congratulations are in order to the Colton Lions Club for another successful Toy Drive and Give-A-Way and may their efforts continue to shine in the community. For more information about the Colton Lions Club, contact President Carlos Araiza @ 951-232-2901.
For more information about CITYTALK, Council of Churches, sermon topics, Bible briefs, Youth Council , various community groups, Colton history, the trash clean-up project, the G-Team, prayer list, history briefs, Veteran Spotlight, Church Spotlight, Business Spotlight, neighborhood meetings, U.S. Flag Watch, fountains, holiday scenes, community projects and events, or the online live-stream programs, text DrG @ 909-213-3730. Questions and comments are always welcome.