#DWYDgives was created because I believe that changing the world starts with changing a single life and grows from there. The mission of #DWYDgives is twofold – to help and to inspire.

Together my wife Bekah and I organize an annual #DWYD Toy & Book Drive. The items go to children and teens who have been victims of abuse and neglect, and who sometimes feel forgotten. I was fortunate to have a mother who protected me from such dangers, but through friends and relatives who have had similar experiences I understand the lasting traumatic effects for these children. 

The second half of our mission is to inspire others to find their purpose and take action in their own way. #DWYDgives is not a non-profit; it is two people committed to making a difference with nothing but time, dedication and hard work. It began as a simple pajama party that collected 40 toys for donation from our social circle. Over the years, our network of community partners has grown to consist of over 20 businesses and organizations that believe in our purpose and help support us by being donation locations and donators. Our last drive was a three-month campaign that collected over 5000 items. In total, we have collected and distributed over 20,000 items.

If you also desire to see the world change for the better, we hope that you are inspired to Do What You Desire and take action, no matter how big or small.

This charity is about promoting child welfare for those who do not have say or control over what happens to them, and whose basic physical and emotional needs are not being met.  I reflect back on my childhood and how truly blessed I was to have parents who provided more than just life’s bare necessities. My husband and I never had the opportunity to have children, and there are so many children in need. Through this charity, we can give time, resources and effort in order to help brighten the lives of some of those children. I could not imagine what it would be like as a child to have everything you own fit in a single backpack, or to be lacking something as simple as a toothbrush and toothpaste. Donating basic supplies such as a fast food gift card to use when you and your friends just want to hang out allows a child or teen a moment of normalcy.  Donating a simple toy, book, backpack, sport ball or gift card provides comfort and reassurance to victims of child abuse and neglect.  How could you not want to help?  DWYD is about inspiring others.  DWYDgives is about helping our future!