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Veteran Led
Trailer
Bonus
Episode 83
Season 1
Lt. Gen. James Laster - Marine Leadership to Inspiring Millions Through Toys for Tots
In this episode of Veteran Led, we welcome Lieutenant General (Ret.) James Laster, CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. Discover how a Marine infantry officer transitioned from senior military leader to leading one of America's most beloved community action programs.
Lt. Gen. Laster discusses his transition from military service to nonprofit leadership, detailing how Toys for Tots expanded beyond Marine Reserve units to include civilian volunteers. He shares insights on the foundation's efforts to provide year-round support through innovative literacy initiatives and foster care programs. Laster emphasizes the critical importance of community involvement and explores various ways individuals can support Toys for Tots, demonstrating how the organization continues to adapt and grow to meet the needs of children across the nation.
Support the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation by visiting toysfortots.org to volunteer, donate, or learn more about their impactful programs.
Chapters
- - Origin of Toys for Tots in 1947
- - Introduction to Lt. Gen. James Laster, CEO of Toys for Tots
- - Why Lt. Gen. Laster chose to lead Toys for Tots after retirement
- - Lt. Gen. Laster's decision to make a difference post-military
- - Transition to Toys for Tots origin story
- - Walt Disney's contribution to Toys for Tots
- - Marine Corps adoption of Toys for Tots program
- - Establishment of Toys for Tots Foundation
- - Nationwide distribution network including all 50 states and territories
- - Record-breaking year: 10.3 million children reached
- - Introduction of literacy program
- - Discussion on Toys for Tots' mission
- - Impact of toys on children's emotional well-being
- - Scale of Toys for Tots' impact: 10 million children, 24 million toys
- - Reasons for Toys for Tots' growth and appeal
- - Efficiency and professionalism of the Toys for Tots program
- - Toys for Tots as a hearts and minds campaign for community involvement
- - After Action Review
- - Characteristics of great leaders
- - NCO leadership: Sergeant Major John Wayne Troxell
- - How to get involved with Toys for Tots