Farmingdale Boy Creates His Own Charity

It all began with the innocent curiosity of a four-year-old child.

It was 1998 when Dylan Cruthers noticed a big box wrapped in holiday paper during a visit to Village Hall in Farmingdale with his Mom. Asking what it was for, she explained it was to collect toys for children who didn't have any Toys for Tots. Because the large box was noticeably empty, Dylan wondered why no one would give toys to those kids. So he began thinking of ways to fill the box, and in doing so, started his own charity which he named "Kids Helping Kids."

Dylan's grassroots mission began with a small toy drive at his home in Farmingdale and has continued ever since. Friends, family and neighbors enthusiastically attend the festive event to share their contributions and enjoy hot chocolate, cookies and some quality time with Santa. After a few years, the event grew too large to host at home so Dylan decided to do it at Farmingdale Village Hall, the place where he was originally inspired. Seven years later, Kids Helping Kids has donated more than 1,400 toys to local organizations Cruthers chooses each year, which have included the Nassau County Coalition Against Domestic Violence, St. Mary's Hospital for Children in Bayside and Education & Assistance Corporation (EAC) Children's Advocacy Center.

Now an 11-year-old student at Northside Elementary School, Dylan says he is most proud of all of the people who participate each year, friends, family and neighbors. "I am very grateful for everything they do. The most fulfilling part of my charity is the day of the toy drive and watching everyone come to help each other."

His efforts haven't gone unnoticed. Ninth District Legistlator Ricardo Montano recognized Dylan's volunteerism with a certificate in 2004 and the Nassau County Police Department honored him with the Nassau County Commissioners Award as well. "Dylan has collected hundreds of toys and touched hundreds of lives of children, and has inspired all who meet him," says Steve Schwimmer of Syosset who met the youngster at a recent EAC volunteer reception. In addition to all of the children who have enjoyed holiday gifts because of Dylan's enthusiasm and diligent efforts, Schwimmer continues, "the children that EAC serves are also now recipients of his good origination skills and his goodwill."

In addition to dedicating a great deal of time to his charity, which he hopes will continue to grow in the future, Dylan enjoys football and computers.

-Claire Curry