This Davenport warehouse looks more like Santa's workshop these days.
"There's lots of kids in need," said Jen Kelly, a Biology lab coordinator from Scott Community College.
Jen is definitely a lady in motion.
She's spending Friday morning sorting Toys for Tots with a couple dozen colleagues.
"I think it's just cool to know that other kids are going to have that same opportunity to have things that every kid should have," she said.
Colorful toys are piled high from local drives. They'll soon find new homes with more than 3,000 families.
Saturday is the last day to register. It will take place from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., at 5402 Tremont Avenue in Davenport.
Judy Thurman is coordinating the massive operation inside the warehouse.
"They cleaned house," she said. "They got all of our toys out."
Toys for Tots can still use donations for younger kids, six month to two years, three to five and 10 to 12 years old.
Thurman is keeping volunteers on the move. They'll sort tons of new, unwrapped toys before it's all done.
"The volunteers are very important," she said. "If it wasn't for the volunteers, we wouldn't get this done."
This volunteer support will make the holidays brighter for some 10,000 area children. It's just another reason why Toys for Tots is so rewarding.
Toy by toy, it's a huge job. But this is really a labor of love for volunteers.
"I think we're keeping it pretty busy," Jen said. "I wouldn't say frantic, but we're busy."
For Jen Kelly, it's a whirlwind of activity. This is a memorable experience with an important message.
"We do still all care for each other and can help each other when we need to," she concluded.
From Scott Community College and elsewhere, it's a caring community coming through once again.