Number of Participants: 2
Hours Donated: 40
Value of Time Served: $676
Event Type: Children & Youth
Sport: Cross Country Running
School: Earl L Vandermeulen High School
Date: February 25, 2025
Location:
Port Jefferson High School
Old Post Road West, Port Jefferson
NY
About:
Tucker and his brother, Carman, are making a meaningful difference in their community through their annual “Teds for Tots” initiative. Inspired by their mother’s work with children navigating difficult family court proceedings, the brothers launched a stuffed animal drive at Earl L. Vandermeulen High School to bring comfort to children in need.
A Community Effort
To spread awareness, Tucker and Carman reached out to the principals at the elementary, middle, and high schools in their district. With the support of the Student Organization at the elementary school, promotional flyers were created and shared on the district website, social media pages, virtual backpack, and Parent Square, ensuring that families across the community were informed. Announcements were also made in each school, and flyers were displayed throughout the buildings.
While the elementary school’s Student Organization played a crucial role in designing flyers, students and student-athletes at the middle and high schools enthusiastically contributed, filling donation bins with stuffed animals. The initiative’s impact was so inspiring that a middle school student even asked if they could continue the program after Tucker graduates in 2026.
The Inspiration Behind “Teds for Tots”
The idea for this initiative dates back to Tucker and Carman’s childhood. Their mother, a legal representative for children in custody disputes or cases of neglect and abuse, often saw firsthand how overwhelming court proceedings could be for young kids. Some judges began offering stuffed animals as a source of comfort, but with so many children in need, supplies quickly ran out. Recognizing the importance of these small but powerful gestures, Tucker and Carman decided to take action, launching an annual stuffed animal drive to ensure a steady supply for Family Court.
A Lasting Impact
This year, over 200 stuffed animals were collected and delivered to Family Court, offering comfort to children facing difficult circumstances. The generosity of students, families, and school administrators played a crucial role in making this effort a success.
One moment that stood out to Tucker was a story his mother shared after a day in Family Court. She saw a three-year-old girl clutching a big, fluffy bear from the donation drive, smiling from ear to ear. This heartfelt moment reinforced the true impact of “Teds for Tots”—bringing warmth and reassurance to children when they need it most.
Through dedication and community support, Tucker and Carman have created a legacy of kindness, proving that small acts of generosity can make a profound difference.
