We don't have any kids, so we always like to do something extra for other peoples' kids at Christmas.  This year we didn't feel as though we had a lot of extra money to spend, so giving of our time seemed like the way to pitch in.  We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and would not hesitate to participate again.

 We feel lucky to have the things/comforts that we do, and we hope that someone would help us out in a like manner if we needed it.

Although the thought of getting involved with the foundation first appealed to me because of my respect and admiration for Mr. Payton, our experience was so positive that we now see "the work" instead of "the name."  Let us know if we can help in the future!

 

Best regards,

Tracy Wilks

 

I wanted to get involved with the WCPF because of the tremendous admiration I had for Walter Payton. To assist his wife, Connie in carrying out the work of the "foundation" allowed me to give a little something back for all the enjoyment he gave me as a Chicago Bear fan. I particularly enjoyed filling the requests for various foster homes and organizations-knowing the toys i selected were going to a particular location made it seem more personal. I would encourage people to volunteer for 3 reasons: seeing how generous people really are, knowing the donated toys are being delivered directly to needy children, and keeping Walter's memory alive!
- Pat 

Amazing...the one word that describes my experience with the WCPF.  Reading WP's autobiography inspired me to get involved with the Foundation, and after a phone
call that accidentally led to a Conversation with Connie, I knew I wanted to dedicate my time.  Nothing compares to the feeling of leaving the warehouse knowing that you just helped bring smiles to the faces of many children.  These past few years w/the Foundation have allowed me to see the true meaning of Christmas.        

-Mary

 

 

I first heard of The Walter & Connie Payton Foundation from a story in Walter's biography. I can't tell anyone how many ways my life has been touched by this experience.    You meet the nicest people & see the kindest acts.  People will astound you with their goodness & generosity if you give them a chance.  I helped a lady unload her trunk with 6 bagfuls of toys she bought.  She brings them every year she says.  I watched a lady get her van filled up with presents for foster children in her care & her joy expressed in an unforgettable smile,tears, & a hug for every volunteer within her reach. I can't imagine not doing this every Christmas.  It is really what the season is all about.  

-Jim

 

 After September 11th, I read a quote from John F. Kennedy.  "To whom much is given, much is expected."  I felt that some of my time watching television or doing other activities could be reallocated to helping people.  With all the negative news stories and hatred in the world, it is reassuring to know that people like Walter and Connie have always tried to make a positive impact.  I personally feel very fortunate to have had the opportunities in my life that many others don't have.  Helping underprivileged kids who don't have much choice in their childhood environment is very rewarding to me.  I am thankful that you guys allow me to participate. 
--Dan 


 

Walter affected so many people, both directly and indirectly with what he accomplished.  He was respected for his appreciation of the fan, his community, and life.  I consider my volunteering, as my opportunity to help ensure that his vision is realized, and his legacy lives on.  I think that you will find that most of the participants and donors share a similar sentiment, thus creating an immediate camaraderie.  Further, in witnessing the efforts afforded by the family, staff, volunteers, and donors, one can't help but be inspired by the selflessness and generosity.
-  Brian

"I liked working in the warehouse and you can tell the other people do too.  I really enjoyed myself and look forward to doing it again this year."   -Charles Cain (1st time WCPF volunteer in 2002, Warehouse Volunteer)

 

 "2002 was my second year working with the WCPF. This year, I volunteered in the warehouse  and collected toys at a local Wal-Mart.  I enjoy volunteering for the WCPF's Holiday giving program and since the first time I volunteered, I decided to make it an annual thing.    I do a lot of volunteering with various orgaizations and for many different causes but of all the volunteer work I do, WCPF has the friendliest, most team oriented volunteers that makes you look forward to coming back each week.  Julie and Cliff, who work directly with the volunteer, are the best people you will ever meet, especially when working in a volunteer environment.  I am really looking forward to increasing my involvement with the foundation in the years to come and to volunteeering for the Holiday Giving Program and getting more people involved with this terrific foundations again this year ."   -Catherine Jackson (WCPF, Holiday Giving Program, Warehouse and Toy Drive Volunteer, WCPF Volunteer since 2001)

The best part of helping at the warehouse is the generosity of strangers.  During the sorting and bagging of the toys, you realize how much money and thought people were spending to make sure that children could have a decent Christmas”  -Marti