Peace Toys for War Toys Exchange
Every year NCGV Holds "Peace Toys For War Toy" Exchanges in local communities. We need your help to spread their message of non-violence.
What is a Toy Exchange?
Parents bring their pre-K and elementary school children to the Toy Exchange to throw away their “war toys” and take home a new “peace toy.” War toys are any type of violent toy, from killer robots and toy guns to violent video games and DVDs. Peace toys are those that encourage creative, cooperative and nonviolent activities.
The Toy Exchange Program was started in 1993 by Ben Piggot, supervisor of the W.C. Sims, Sr. Recreation Center in Winston-Salem, NC. The program has gained national prominence and was recognized in 2000 by The National Crime Prevention Conference in Washington, D.C.
The Toy Exchange is a chance for the community to demonstrate that violence is not child’s play, and it serves as a reminder of the staggering number of people who have been killed or injured by guns. The event is also a fun way for community leaders and parents to encourage kids in nonviolent play and show that our community is committed to instilling the values of peace and justice in our children.
You Can Help
You can be instrumental in helping to send this message of peace by providing positive, fun, creative toys for kids participating in our program. We invite you to share in this experience by making a tax-deductible contribution of sports toys, science toys or education toys, stuffed animals, puzzles, board games, musical toys or art supplies to the Peace Toys for War Toys Exchange. Don't have time to shop? Consider making a donation to our Toy Exchange Fund and we'll do the toy shopping for you.
Do You Want to Do More?
Live in Durham? Consider volunteering your time at the next event. Even better NCGV can work with your community group or religious organization to host your own Toy Exchange!
Contact us at ncgv@ncgv.org to learn how NCGV can help you host a Toy Exchange in your community. NCGV will assist you in planning for the event and can often provide some resources.
