This holiday season, the spirit of giving was alive and well at River Legacy Nature Center.

We are overwhelmed with gratitude for the generosity of our staff and Nature School parents during our annual toy drive for Community Partners of Tarrant County. The donation box was filled to the brim with toys that will bring joy to countless children in need, thanks to their thoughtfulness and dedication.

This meaningful tradition is led by our Education Director, Sherrie Ripple, whose commitment to giving back has been instrumental in its success. Reflecting on the origin of this initiative, Sherrie shared, 

“For several years, we had an annual staff holiday party where we exchanged gifts with one another. About five years ago, I felt driven to change that and give back to the community that has supported us so well over the years. We can’t fulfill our mission without our community’s time, dedication, and support, so I proposed making a change. Now, rather than exchanging gifts amongst ourselves, our staff chooses a different community organization to be our recipient each holiday season.”

We are thankful for Sherrie’s vision and dedication to fostering a culture of generosity here at the Nature Center. Her leadership has transformed what was once a simple holiday tradition into an impactful act of community care.

At River Legacy Foundation, we believe in nurturing not just a love for nature but also a love for our community. Partnering with Community Partners of Tarrant County for this toy drive allows us to extend our mission of stewardship beyond the trails and classrooms. Each donation symbolizes hope, joy, and the power of coming together to make a difference.

To our River Legacy staff: your generosity reflects the heart of what our organization stands for. These toys will not only brighten the holidays for local children but also serve as a reminder of the impact we can have when we give back. From dolls and games to books and puzzles, every contribution is a testament to your kindness and commitment to creating a better world.

As we continue to educate and inspire through nature, we are reminded that our greatest strength lies in the connections we build with one another. Thank you for being part of our River Legacy family and for making this season truly special. 

Together, we’ve proven that small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of joy and hope for those who need it most.