Toys and Tats Charitable Drive.... DONATIONS DENIED!!

Well, they went and made it about who donated instead of ABOUT THE CHILDREN. Who are needy, sick, or will go giftless. Seriously?!!!!

Asses.

Well, that's definately the dumbest thing I've heard today. I'm glad you were able to eventually get the gifts to someone.

I would love to explain the thought process but it eludes me at the moment. It is as if the perceived reputation of the receiving organization is more important than helping the kids the organization claims to do.

Wow.

I can't even imagine that happening here... but then again... my son's surgeon (Children's Hosp Seattle) has full sleeves. Ink is drop dead NORMAL here.

You have got to be kidding! Tattoos are so common place these days, it really surprises me that this would be a problem! I hope someone else can shed some light on why this happened

Then come and do it here in Chicago area ... we have strippers giving quick lap dances in exchange for toys to local churches

http://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/Strip-Club-Offers-La...

I do not really care how they were obtained just so long as they were obtained with the intention of love, giving and kindness.

I was going to say the same thing as Riley J. My son spent quite a bit of time in Children's Hospital and some of the best doctors he had had tattoos. I suggest writing a letter to EACH and every one of the organizations that denied the toys and making the heading to the CEO. I have to wonder if the organizations bosses knew that they were denying gifts because of tats.
L.

I'm kind of with Tracy K. I'm not saying I don't believe you, but this is just unbelievable. Maybe he missed the cut off deadline or there is more to the story than you are seeing?

Wow. I really have to wonder if there was some miscommunication? You said that "the organizations" "flat out said" they wouldn't take the gifts -- but was this really the organization spokesperson or leader for that local group/hospital/orphanage, or some individual volunteer who just happened to be at the toy intake at that particular moment and who was perhaps....to put it nicely, misinformed, and to put it more frankly, biased?

I have heard of groups turning down soft, plush or stuffed toys that were not in any packaging, because of the risk of kids having allergies to the stuffing and/or the risk that there was no way for the receiving organization to know for certain the toys were not used. But I have never heard of what you describe, if the recipients actually said the tats were the reason for refusal. I understand your being appalled.

Before blasting the whole organization, R., instead I'd first write calmly to the organization's president/whoever's in charge (do it for each organization that said no). Describe exactly the date and time the toys were taken to them; the location where someone attempted to drop off the toys; the types of toys brought (with examples) and if you possibly got it, the names of the people that turned them down. I'd tell the organization how saddened and frustrated Toys for Tats was to be turned away with brand new packaged toys in hand, and I would add if possible exactly what was said to the Toys for Tats person who was there. Then I'd list the names of other organizations that have accepted and worked with Toys for Tats in the past.

Add that you would like to know, in writing, if this incident was a one-time problem with a single volunteer who should not have turned away the donation, or if this reflects a specific policy of the group. In other words -- give them the old "here are the details, we can't believe this is YOUR group and surely it was one worker's mistake" treatment rather than blasting them. Letters citing dates, times, names and incidents tend to get organizations' attention and action much more effectively than a call or an angry letter full of accusations. Give it a try. (You'll also keep on breaking those stereotypes of how "people with tats" would react to all this--react like a bunch of lawyers and maybe they'll realize that some lawyers have tats!)

I would bet that people over the heads of the workers who turned the toys away might just be furious themselves if they find out these toys were turned away.

Then, if you don't get a prompt and apologetic response...Call the local newspaper and TV station!

I do hope it mostly ends up being misunderstandings or misinformed volunteers. If there is actually a policy about not taking toys from people who look a certain way, where could that end up? Not taking toys from donors because of their race? Or their gender? Or because they don't look affluent enough themselves to be donating toys?....

I would email the story in to a local news station...see if they pick it up? Maybe the negative publicity (to the denying organizations..not your fellow Tatters) would change the future endeavors???

Thats just insane!

I really find that hard to believe, to be honest. I mean, Unless the offer to donate was accompanied with a request for free advertising for the shop or something.

Our motorcycle clubs around here do chairty work, year round. Poker runs, toy drives, can food drives. The heads of the charitable organizations (many of them wealthy blue hairs) are so adorable. They like to take thier pictures accepting the donations from the biggest, burliest, most tattooed guy they can find. They love getting those pics in the paper.

People that are driven to help children, are not the type to turn down a donation from any source! Especially now that state and local budgets are slashed and there are no more block grants to fund charities. They are literaly begging for donations from anyone. I really have to believe there is something more going on here.

I suggest this is a part of the politically correct mind set. Must not offend the majority even if we offend the minority. The PC movement is supposed to embrace differences but in reality, often, does the opposite.

Has he gone to the media about this???? This is shameful, its not like this big burly tatted guy is going to the house to deliver these toys to the kids, for cying out loud. Who gives a crud how he aquires the toys, except for stealing them of course. I hope this does not turn him away from doing it again next year. Since he is really into his kids' schooling, why doesnt he set something up throught the school, since its private school? Good luck, and keep up the good work.

I would ask the places that turned them down, especially if they had accepted them in the past, what's so different? Why turn them down this time? Who complained?

I know certain religions thing if you pierce or tattoo yourself, you will not get into heaven.. Amazing, but I guess if you go to church and are a big gossip or bully you will?

People that judge have no idea the wonderful people they are missin gout on knowing.

I am so sorry this happened to your friend. I am glad they hound a place to take donations.

That sucks! All I can say is that just sucks!

WOW, I can't believe your groups would be turned down. You see people begging all over the media for donations, etc and then to turn someone down... What scrooges

I also think it is wrong that your shop had to get someone un-tattooed to make the delivery/donation.

I can't believe how some people are these days. It takes a LOT of work to get donations, especially recently and people should be much more appreciative. I am sorry you went through this red tape.

I wouldn't blame you if you didn't participate next year. I might also make a bigger stink by getting some word out that your group was denied so everyone knows how judgemental the organizations they donate to really are.

Merry Christmas.

It is possible this is because of the recent controversial issue with the bike group, which took place in Reno NV. I don't know for sure, but it is a possibility.

I donate used bicycles and miscellaneous items in my line of work and this was actually one of the most difficult donations I have seen in the past 3 years. I was turned down by 4 organizations. One accepted the donation and then showed up and said they could only take 5 items. I called Catholic Charities and they were so happy to take the donation.

I don't get it. I thought that is how charitable organizations survive...from donations.

It does not make any sense to me either. If people donate they should be allowed no matter what. Many years ago when I lived in FL one strip clubs did a car wash to raise money for breast cancer. Yes they did wash the cars topless, but that was all they did wash the car. The cancer foundation they were trying to donate to would not accept the money. It makes no sense, no one was forced to participate, or donate and it was all done with the sole purpose of helping people. To turn down a tattoo artist is ridiculous, I don't care how covered he is. Maybe next time try the Shriners hospital, I don't think they ever turn any one away.

Wow! Just wow.
It would be nice if you could list the organizations that turned him down... I will make sure my donations go to a less "holier than thou" place.

That is very sad :-( im glad your friend was persistant and was able to find away to give...i hate sterotypes!

That is very sad. I am sorry to hear that. Kudos to you and yours for making the effort!

Geez, I'd like to have the names and numbers of these numbskull places so us mamas can gang up on them to call and ask them why on earth they denied needy children at Christmas. Also, I'd definitely go to the media. Maybe some reporter can get a bumbling answer for why kids had to go without.

thats just silly! turn down donated toys!!! wth is wrong with people!!!! more power to you and your tattooed friend he is making a big difference!

I'd be currious to know which organizations turned you down. I'd also like to know how the donations were made. Did the owner of the store contact the organization that he was donating to in advance? Did he just walk into the organization with the donations? How did the organizations even know it was from "this type"?

I can certainly understand an organization like Toys for Tots having to turn down the donations as it could discourge others from donating by being associated with a company that is strictly for adults.

I've worked with our local Salvation Army in distributing toys. I've seen people just show up with toys, and the leaders just say Thank You, no other questions asked.

this is why I say don't judge a book by its cover....

One of my friend's belongs to the Hells Angels in Las Vegas. Yeah - there are some rough and tumble guys in there and yeah because of them they have a bad reputation...but I can tell you my guy? like yours? HUGE teddy bear.

I'm glad they were able to circumvent the system and get the toys to the organizations!

You know - Marines have tattoos too right? Well, NOT ALL Marines - and they are the ones that started this Toys for Tots drive. I guess I would've found the nearest Marine recruiting station and given them there.

I'm glad it worked out. Sucks that people turned the donations down based on the outward appearance of the person delivering....

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Just donate the toys to Toys for Tots. Its a completely anonymous donation and they are happy to take any donations. I have worked for Toys for Tots and various other Christian toy collection groups and we never would have turned down any donation. I don't see how there is this much stigma against tattoos in this day and age - they are quite common. You must have come across some mean old geezers! With that said my parents live just outside of the Richmond area and I can think of three places of the top of my head that would have been happy for the donations from anyone so don't let it deter you in the future. You just had some bad luck. In the future you can hook up with the Richmond Toys for Tots drive - I'm pretty sure the Marines have no issues with tattoos and you will probably get some business from them too! You will find them at the RSS station in Richmond. The Marine Corps reserve runs the program. Also most Fire Stations run their own collection drive. Another great bunch of guys to check out! Better luck to you next year!

Maybe one tatoo shop has a reputation for crimes(drugs, hookers) so they turn them all down. A bunch of us heard about an icecream parlor that was a front for illegal drugs. The rumors turned out to be true even though I didn't believe them at the time.
I saw a tat shop doing this and Toys For Tots took the toys without issue.

Are u sure there is not more to the story? I know tons of people who have tatoos. Even our pastor of a mega church(9 000 people) have 5 and "brags" about them all the time so i do not see why it mattered.....

In the meantime, I read an article a couple of days ago about how Toys for Tots in the Philly area was only at about 30% of what they usually get every year...one week before Christmas. The fireman (who they interviewed) was basically panicking about needy kids not getting toys this year. Makes me sick to hear about your experience. Kids getting punished because of those bigots' ignorance...just sick.

Find a place with a Toys for Tots bin next year (Toys R Us usually has large donation bins) or call the organization directly about dropping off. Toys for Tots won't care who gives the donation.

That is so horrible. Please show these responses to your friend and let him know that his efforts are wonderful and please don't stop doing this next year. Maybe set-up a place to donate to ahead of time so he's not frustrated. I'm not a huge fan of tatoos but the ironic part is, if I saw an effort like this from a tatoo parlor, it would be a huge reminder not to judge anyone except by their actions!! I'm so glad lots of kids will get toys he selflessly donated and he should be too. I hope this didn't ruin his Christmas.

That's crazy!

I would write a letter to the Editor of the local newspaper regarding this problem. Get the word out and make them fall to their knees.

Nanc
Owner of 4 tattoos

I think it's really cool you guys have set out to do this good work. Sometimes the name of your group turns people off, even if you have the best intentions. Is it right? NO, but it happens.

Last night, I met a family who has worked very hard for 7 yrs for a group called "Christmas in April." They go to really run down houses and fix them up---for free!!! But they start collecting donations and volunteers in October, have to get permits and by APril, they are good to go.

The founders were told last yr they should change their name. "Christmas in APril" is a name that will offend some people and the donors would no longer donate. They were running out of funds for the next project. Sad, huh? So, like the name, "Toys and Tats" the "Christmas in April" project had to change their name in order to get support.

Whaaaaa?

There was a strip bar in Chicago collecting toys and the "donor" was getting a free LAP DANCE. They had a TON of toys to donate. WIsh I knew where THOSE went!

As for tattoos it's HARD to find someone WITHOUT one. I just saw a picture of Clay Matthew's from the Packers and I didn't see a single tat on him. I emailed it to my friend in Cincy and asked her what was "wrong" with this picture and she said "he has NO ink? What's UP with THAT?!" LOL!

This is absolutely crazy! Ever last one of these places should be ashamed! I wish there was some one you could report this too. Ink means nothing about a person- other than they wanted to get a tat. Ridiculous.
Good for them for doing this. They sound like very good people.

that is so bizarre. and wrong and mind boggling of course.

you mention that some people don't like tattoos - i actually see the opposite happening. tattoos are becoming more and more mainstream imo. think of all the soccer moms you spoke of - and practically everyone i work with, between the ages of 18-60 has at least one small one.

i'm SO glad that someone finally took them...next time i would call the news station or something. i mean where is the spirit of christmas? shame on them. i would not hesitate to advertise their attitudes.

i just don't know what else to say. wow.

I can't understand it either. I know for a fact that at least three places we've lived have had massive toy drives done by bikers who one might look at and not want to encounter in a dark alley. (Several of them are covered with tattoos as well). These toy drives are a big deal, and as far as I know the organizations they worked with had no problem with the image of the individuals donating. It's sad that your group was turned down. Perhaps in the future, recipients could be lined up ahead of time to avoid a similar situation?

WOW! The only thing that I can think of other than what appears to have happened is some places won't take used toys. Where any of the toys used?

I think it's more of a what the organization can handle. Some can't clean up and sort through toys, clean them up, and take the risk that they are passing on something that has been recalled. It seems they would have said that and given some direction as to who/where could use the donations. Crazy!

Simply said - this is awful. Talk about being stereo-typed! I can't imagine someone turning down a toy b/c of the way a person LOOKS who gave it to them. Isn't that racism in a way? If only those 'in charge' would put themselves in a poor child's shoes and realize that the children would be blessed by the toy no matter who gave it. Very sad. Very frustrating. I would be pissed.

I totally get why they denied them, personally.

For one...it's not a gift of free will. When you give to a charity drive, you usually don't get a $50 gift in return. Sure, it's charity on the tattoo artist's part...but HIS charity is going to defacing people's skin. It'd be a different story if everyone just came in, bought tattoos, and he used his money to buy all the toys.

I personally wouldn't want toys from my children knowing they were given so people could get tattoos. What in the WORLD is that teaching our children? It really isn't very charitable, and I personally don't want my children eager about tattoos.

I think it's a wonderful thing the tattoo artist is doing...don't get me wrong...hearts are TOTALLY in the right place on HIS end of things...just maybe not on the recipients. There are so many ways to give toys anonymously, and yet you've got people saying, "No, I want a free tattoo for my gift of charity."

Good for the artists...doing a good thing...but really, not so great for the people participating.

And it's nothing the same as a biker group giving toys. My retired father (retired airforce, retired private pilot) belongs to a "biker group" that bikes toys over to a children's drive every year. They didn't get tattoos in return for their gifts...and my dad doesn't have a tattoo, anyhow.

I can understand why you're upset...but I hope you can understand why they were denied. The gift should've then been made anonymously. If everyone's heart was in the right place, no one would care about getting recognition for giving.

I totally don't understand it to the point that it truly does not make any sense, especially if they received gifts in the past for six years. It would seem they are working with the places they donate to by this point and wouldn't be suddenly turned away unless there was some sort of trouble in the past? Tattoos are far from taboo and I cant' imagine anyone caring, are you sure it wasn't something else? I'm glad they found a place to take them. Weirdest story ever. If they did point blank say, "We can't take these toys because you have tattoos" your friend should call the local news to report how ridiculous every children's agency in your area is. I doubt that would happen anywhere else in the country to be honest. We've been AROUND and have seen tattoos EVERYWHERE for the past 20 years.

It really seems like you either don't know or aren't sharing the whole story. It just doesn't make sense... and not JUST the idea that they couldn't donate the toys.

Fist, why would they be collecting gifts as a charity WITHOUT anything set up to actually GIVE the toys to kids? That is the kind of thing that would be set up ahead of time if for no other reason than so that the people making donations know where they are going.

Second, and on the same note... if they have held this toy drive for six years, don't they ALREADY have a place to take them?

Finally, I am certain that no organization that DOES accept donated toys would reject them simply because they person dropping them off had tattoos. It is much more likely that either a) the places they were taking them don't take direct donations (often gifts need to be vetted for safety to prevent the crazies) or b) they were looking to have a recognition for the donation that the organization would not provide. Either way, they should have had a partner cause set up before-hand to avoid this.

Seriously, if they really wanted to get the toys out, they could have dropped them off at the fire-station for toys for tots and been done with it. Sounds to me like things didn't go your friends' way and they are playing victim deciding it's BECAUSE of their tattoos.

Found the link below about an adult store collecting toys and being turned away from toys for tots. I am a little confused as to which organization it is. Isn't the Marine's called Toys for Tots too?
Exactly which organizations turned you down?

http://parenting-source.com/children/toys-for-tots-denies...

WOW! I can't believe that this would happen! First of all if they're so concerned about image how would they or the kids know who the gifts came from? Second of all just because someone has a tattoo doesn't mean they are "bad" people. I have some GREAT friends who have sleeves and they are the most trustworthy, friendly people I know. SO SAD! Shame on them!!

I just posted this story on my facebook wall!! I want to see how many people respond! Makes me sad to read this!!

Toni
n. California

I don't understand things like this either. But alot of organiations are being really picky. The Salvation Army denied donations because they said that "gay people"money wasn't wanted or needed... I can find a few things wrong with that too... bottom line,people think that by accepting donations from "those people",ie,tattooed,biker,gay,ec...that kind of stigma will be left on their organiation,thus tainting its reputation.

Is some wacko organization pushing this? I could imagine some group who donates regularly or has "clout" in some way deciding that there are undesirables out there and they are going to make a fuss about these undesirables being a bad influence on "our children?"