Time for toys

It's the young helping the younger, and they could use your help.

The Kootenai County Young Professionals will host a Toys for Tots drive from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday at Avondale Golf Course, 10745 N. Avondale Loop, Hayden Lake. Cost of admission is a new, unwrapped toy.

KCYP has added something new this year: a small silent and live auction to raise additional funds for Toys for Tots. The group has been able to gather auction items like hotel stays, wine tastings and lift tickets from local businesses, so those and many more will be available for bid. Heavy appetizers and a no-host bar will be available. Feel free to stop by and say hi, meet other KCYP members, and donate to a meaningful cause.

"We really wanted to add something new to the event this year and still be able to give back to the community," said Ken Huitt, KCYP board president. "That is why we thought a small auction would add some fun and a great way to raise much-needed funds for Toys for Tots."

Kootenai County's Toys for Tots is sponsored by the Pappy Boyington Detachment No. 966 of the Marine Corps League, providing unwrapped toys for kids 12 and younger who otherwise might not have a merry Christmas. Last year, the local program distributed almost 10,000 toys, more than 3,000 books and more than 2,500 stocking stuffers to struggling families.

The Kootenai County Young Professionals started in 2007 to connect young professionals with each other and with the community through education and leadership opportunities, philanthropy, networking and social events.

KCYP strives to attract and retain young professionals by providing meaningful professional and personal connections, community involvement, volunteer opportunities and educational events like the monthly Tavern Talk speaker series.

Community members of all ages are welcome to become involved in KCYP membership. Experience, knowledge and backgrounds of all varieties continue to help members become active community leaders.