The holiday spirit was unmistakable outside Walmart on Saturday, December 6, as Something Positive, Positive Pahrump, Pahrump Valley Fire & Rescue, and the Pahrump Disability Outreach Program (PDOP) came together for the 15th annual community Toy Drive. Under a gorgeous, sunny sky, families stopped by to donate toys, enjoy the warm weather, and even climb into a parked fire engine for photos—an unexpected highlight that brought smiles to kids and adults alike. The relaxed, cheerful atmosphere set the perfect tone for a day focused on giving back and supporting local children.
By the end of the day, the teams collected dozens of toys and raised $567 in on-site donations. But the generosity didn’t start there—before the first toy was even dropped into the collection bins, nearly $25,000 had already been raised through early community contributions. In total, this year’s effort will help ensure that approximately 200 local children receive gifts this Christmas.
The need was especially visible this season, with 250 children placed on local Angel Trees in addition to the families supported through the toy drive. While the two programs do not overlap—families receiving gifts through the toy drive are not eligible for Angel Tree assistance—the high numbers across both efforts show just how many households are facing a tough holiday. Something Positive President Stephanie Avena said these moments of giving speak to the heart of why this program continues to thrive.
“For 15 years, I’ve kept this toy drive going because the magic of Christmas is something every child should experience, no matter their circumstances,” Avena said. “When people show up with generosity in their hearts, it proves how powerful our community can be. That spirit is what inspires me year after year.”
Saturday’s event was a true partnership. Volunteers from PDOP and Pahrump Valley Fire & Rescue stood alongside close friends and family members of the Something Positive and Positive Pahrump teams, greeting shoppers, collecting donations, and helping load toys. Behind the scenes, about 20 shopping and wrapping volunteers were ready to organize the gifts and help prepare them for distribution to families.
After 15 years, the Toy Drive has become one of Pahrump’s most cherished holiday traditions—one built on kindness, collaboration, and a shared commitment to making sure no child goes without a little Christmas magic.
