By Cheryl Conway

Members of the Randolph High School Key Club brought joy to children during the holidays when they collected and donated about 100 toys.

Initiated by RHS junior Charles Taibi, 70 Key Club members brought in new and used toys from early December and donated them to the Morristown Neighborhood House on Dec. 21. A collection box was placed at the school and each member received an hour of community service credit for every two or three toys they donated.

“We usually do a toy drive in Key Club,” says Taibi, “so we decided to do one for the Neighborhood House. It was the holiday season and kids need toys. I just wanted to help, and it’s in the neighborhood.”

On Dec. 21, Taibi went with his mom, Rosemary Taibi, to drop off the toys.

“It was good,” says Taibi, although he did not get to meet any of the children. “I really enjoy collecting these for these kids. Helping other people is really nice; it’s really satisfying.”

Last year, Taibi organized a collection during the summer in which he collected summer camp stuff, water bottles, sunscreens, bags and sunglasses through the RHS Key Club.

He hopes do hold a similar drive in the spring.

Taibi – who is a member of the RHS Varsity Swim Team, is a former band member and is involved in two honor societies- chose the Morristown Neighborhood House as the recipient of the toys because of its nearby vicinity. He also wanted to raise awareness to the community of the organization’s existence.

The Morristown Neighborhood House is a resource for immigrants and working class families since 1898. It provides programs that are designed to support individuals and families to become self-sufficient.

“We have to make sure we’re looking out for each other,” says Taibi. “Everyone is not always equal or as fortunate as you.” Giving back, “it’ll bring joy to you and everyone else.”