Eighth Annual Toy Run Continues To Support Local Families

On Saturday, November 9, The Office Bar & Grill will host the eighth annual Toys for the ‘Dena Run.

Since 2012, the community-focused, biker-infused toy drive and fundraiser has collected donations to support families in Pasadena during the holidays. Last year, the effort collected more than 100 toys and over the years has raised nearly $40,000 to help local families.

Lifelong Pasadena resident Sarah Root is the general manager of The Office Bar & Grill and organizes the run each year.

“It’s our way of giving back to the community,” she said. “We’re all from Pasadena, and most of us have lived here all of our lives. We’re big on family, and we want to help.”

From now until the event, donations can be placed at several locations from Annapolis to Pasadena including Stan & Joe’s Saloon, Ellie’s Place and Severna Park Taphouse. On November 9, bikers will meet for breakfast at The Office, and head out to collect the donated items from each location.

One of Root’s favorite parts of the tradition is seeing a mountain of toys arrive at The Office. After collecting the toys and the funds from registration, donations and raffles, she contacts local schools to help her identify families who could use some assistance for the holidays. Then, she works with each family individually to provide toys, clothing and other needs.

To participate in the Toys for the ‘Dena Run, the cost is $20 per bike, $10 for any additional passengers, and a new unwrapped toy. Root asks that toys and clothing items be in the age range of 3 to 15 years old. Doors open at 9:00am on November 9 for a breakfast buffet and registration. The run will start at 11:00am.

“Everyone is welcome to come out upon our return,” said Root. “Kalediscope is donating their time and will take the stage at 4:00pm, and we will do 50/50’s and raffle baskets when we get back.”

Root also encouraged other local businesses to reach out to The Office Bar & Grill to participate in this year’s event, whether by donating a basket for the raffle or a gift card. The success of the event comes from local businesses, organizations and community members collaborating to support others.

This benefit is to raise funds and toys for families from Pasadena that cannot provide their children with a Christmas morning. All the funds and toys raised go to the families who are selected and The Office staff shops for the things they need and matches the toys and clothes to the correct families. For more information about the eighth annual Toys for the ‘Dena Run, visit www.officebargrill.com/event/8th-annual-toys-dena-run.