Woodland has hosted an annual toy drive for the past 20 years. Loren Luddy, organizer of the toy drive, brought this tradition to the school when she first applied to Woodland. Before working at Woodland, Luddy taught at Naugatuck High School, and annually held a toy drive, Luddy loved the tradition so much, she brought it to Woodland.

“I thought it was a good idea for our students to become involved in the community and helping the less fortunate,” said Luddy.

Luddy’s advisory helps to organize the toy drive. Her students come together as one to make sure everything is organized. Her favorite part of this kindness act is when her advisory gets involved and connects with each other.

“Even kids who are kind of reluctant come together to help with this,” said Luddy.

The toys are donated to the Children Guidance Center, which is an organization that works with children and families who are less fortunate. Each year a number of families will apply for support from this organization and from there it will determine who gets the toys. A list of names is then given to Luddy and from there she assigns advisories to the children.

“We always get extras because we’re extra generous,” said Luddy. “So we will donate the toys to other local toy drives, like Toys for Tots.”

As Luddy continues teaching at Woodland, this advisory tradition will continue to give to those who are less fortunate. This act of kindness will be spread throughout Woodland and advisories will continue to come together as one to donate to these local families.