Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - It may be a warm and steamy August, but the local Navy League Council is already hard at work preparing for the 22nd consecutive year of raising funds to distribute toys to needy kids during the Christmas holidays. They're collaborating with their many local sponsors, importantly including the Marriott CasaMagna Resort & Spa, Vista Vallarta Golf Club, Coldwell Banker Real Estate, and others to make this the best year ever.

Over the past 21 years, the local Toys for Tots program has distributed more than 175,000 toys (and smiles!) to some of the neediest kids throughout the Bahia. This year we hope to raise enough money to hand out at least another 8,000 toys! In addition, we plan to add to the dozens of playgrounds we've constructed over the past 20+ years.

Our two major fundraisers will be held in early December. First up will be a charity golf scramble on Saturday, December 7 at the Vista Vallarta Golf Club. You can sign up yourself or as a Team by contacting Jerry Lafferty at LAFFJA(at)aol.com.

This is a fun annual outing that raises loads of money for a very heartwarming and fun cause. Next up will be the annual Toys for Tots Charity Ball at the Marriott Hotel the evening of December 8. It will be an evening of great dancing and a delicious dinner served by the award-winning Marriott chef. Again, contact Jerry Lafferty if you also plan to attend the Dinner/Dance.

Plan to attend both events, even if you're a novice golfer (or dancer.) We have prizes for about every skill level – the idea is to have fun!

We'll be in contact later in the year regarding plans for the distribution of toys throughout the Bahía de Banderas. It will be done in early January, when the kids return from Christmas vacation on or near Three Kings Day. We'd love to have you join us on this heart-warming day, a day you won't soon forget. Be prepared to shed a few tears!