HONOLULU (KHON2) -- In a heartfelt effort to spread joy during the holiday season, Mark Imaizumi, a community leader and organizer, has kicked off his sixth annual toy drive for Toys for Tots. This initiative aims to collect toys for keiki (children) in need as a way of ensuring every child has the opportunity to experience the joy of receiving a gift during the holidays. Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Imaizumi welcomes everyone to join in making a keiki smile this holiday season. He explained that the toy drive is not just about collecting toys but about making a difference in the lives of keiki who might otherwise go without. “This started as a personal and professional effort to get everyone in the office involved in providing for kids in our local areas,” he shared. "Over the years, this small initiative blossomed into a larger community effort, especially as we have adapted to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic." When the pandemic hit, many people stayed home which made it more difficult to gather and donate like in previous years. Imaizumi recognized this challenge and decided to create a way for people to contribute while still practicing social distancing. “I laid the groundwork for an avenue that people could use,” he said. "This included offering personal shopping services for those who wanted to make a difference but couldn’t leave their homes." Imaizumi’s drive ensures that keiki, who have no control over the circumstances of the world, can still enjoy a special holiday season. As the drive has grown through the years, so has the community's response. “It has been overwhelming, and I am so grateful for all the support we’ve received,” Imaizumi noted. "Contributions have come from across the U.S., with people sending donations through online shopping platforms, Venmo and even by dropping off toys at his office in downtown Honolulu." He urged everyone to get involved, stating, “If anyone would like to participate, it is fantastic. Many people are looking for a way to help.” The toy drive doesn't only stop at collecting toys. Imaizumi and his team also reach out to local hospitals and organizations, like the Queen's Medical Center for Women’s and Children, to ensure that gifts go to those who need them most. “We often receive requests from organizations that say, ‘We could use some help’; and we’re happy to assist,” he explained. Imaizumi emphasized the importance of community involvement. He welcomes contributions from local groups, youth organizations, corporate entities and individuals. “It has been amazing to see everyone come together,” he said. With donations already pouring in, he is encouraging people to act early and make their contributions count. For those looking for ideas on what to donate, Imaizumi had a few suggestions. He highlighted that sensory toys are especially popular amongst younger keiki. “I receive a lot of requests for sensory toys. They seem to bring a lot of joy,” he mentioned. "Other popular items included LEGO sets and electronic vehicles, which tend to capture the imagination of many kids." Imaizumi also encouraged potential donors to think about what toys they would have loved as a child when they go out to shop. “Shop for yourself or for someone close to you,” he advised. “Think about what you would want to find under the tree on Christmas morning. This personal touch helps ensure that gifts truly resonated with the children who received them." He pointed out that while many toys target younger keiki, the drive also aimed to include items for older kids. “ "We want to make sure all age groups are represented, from infants to teenagers,” he said. Imaizumi noticed that as the season progressed, people began to shop for a wider variety of toys. “It’s great to see donations for older kids coming in, whether it’s school supplies or creative development tools." As for the condition of the toys, Imaizumi confirmed that new items were preferred. “In today’s world, we really recommend donating brand new toys over gently used ones,” he explained. This policy was in place to ensure safety and hygiene. However, he assured the community that the organization would sort through all donations, ensuring that everything went to those in need. Imaizumi’s dedication to the Toys for Tots initiative is not just a seasonal project for him; it has become a personal mission. “This means the world to me,” he said. He expressed his hope that the toy drive would continue long into the future, even beyond his own involvement. “I will make sure someone keeps it going for as long as possible." With the holiday season approaching, Imaizumi urged anyone interested to reach out and contribute. Donations can be dropped off at his office located at 820 Mililani Street, Suite 400, in Honolulu. You can also mail any gifts for this initiative do that address. He encourages everyone to get involved and make a difference in the lives of keiki this holiday season. The Toys for Tots initiative represents more than just toys; it symbolizes hope and community spirit. You can click here to learn more about Toys for Tots. Imaizumi will be accepting toys through Dec. 19. Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHON's morning podcast, every morning at 8 Imaizumi’s commitment to this cause has inspired many to join him in making the holidays a little brighter for those in need. As he concluded, he invited everyone to take part as he reminds us that our contributions can bring smiles to countless keiki this Christmas.