Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - For the 13th consecutive year, Toys for Tots Puerto Vallarta raised enough money throughout the year to deliver Holiday joy to almost 7,000 less fortunate kids throughout the greater Bahía de Banderas region, from Nayarit in the North to El Tuito and surrounding towns in the South.

On January 9, 2012, nine caravans, carrying 300 eager and venturesome volunteers, departed from the Marriott Hotel to seek out the neediest kids in some of the more remote corners of our little piece of paradise. Volunteers came from many sources and backgrounds, including the Marriott CasaMagna Resort and Spa, U.S. Consular Agency,the Puerto Vallarta Navy League, the Mexican Armada, and many resident and tourist volunteers.

For many, if not all, volunteers, it was a highlight experience of the year, with as many smiles lighting up the faces of volunteers as were witnessed on the faces of the children. Those volunteers lucky enough to portray the Three Kings were mobbed by adoring young fans, and each toy delivered was almost always accompanied by a thank-you and a bright smile.

Teachers led the kids in songs of the season - while the children waited in great anticipation for the opening of their new gifts. For some it was the only toy to be seen at Christmas time, so you can imagine their delight. And best of all, a visit to their school by the Three Kings told them that they are not the forgotten ones, and imparted hope that they too can aspire to become whatever they want to be. Hope is in many ways as equally important as beans and rice.

More than 375,000 pesos were raised this year through a charity golf tournament on December 10, a gala dinner dance on December 11, and many cash and merchandise donations from local and international individuals and businesses. Major sponsors included the Marriott CasaMagna Resort and Spa, Vista Vallarta Golf Club, Rivercity ATM and the Puerto Vallarta Navy League.

Other key donors included IJAS, Asociación de Charros, Eagle Wings Foundation, Liverpool and Hacienda Vieja. These donors, and the countless local businesses and individuals who supported Toys for Tots with cash and merchandise donations, are to be applauded for their generosity.