Creating change
through play.
Engaging in meaningful fun can spark a child’s imagination and build positive self-esteem that can theoretically change the course of many lives.
This is The Andrew Effect.
From 2021-2024, The Andrew Effect has gifted over 3,225 children
Adventure Pack Totals
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Toys and Games
6,892 Delivered
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Books
3,431 Delivered
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STEAM Activity Kits
8,161 Delivered
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Valentine’s Day Kits
139 Delivered
Help put hope
in their hands.
The Andrew Effect works to ignite the imagination of children who would otherwise have limited access to quality, developmentally appropriate toys and activities. We partner with agencies serving children and school districts to deliver new toys, books, games and other quality programs to the families and children they serve.
Our mission:
The Andrew Effect inspires children to explore their world by providing them with opportunities that spark creativity and learning.
All children deserve enriching and supportive environments.
Families that struggle with meeting basic needs often cannot provide their children with quality activities and learning stimulation.
Yes, Andrew is
a real person.
We’ve all had an Andrew in our life. He was a joyous child who lived to play, especially with his cousins. He loved tractors and bikes and erector sets. Those toys helped Andrew escape darker moments. Growing up, his parents struggled with addiction and often couldn’t provide the most basic needs for him. At the young age of 19 when most young people are just starting to figure out life, Andrew lost his. The environment where he learned to live ended his life far too soon. Those of us who grew up playing with our beloved Andrew can only imagine what amazing things he could have accomplished. If only one caring adult had stepped up to make a difference in his life. The Andrew Effect works to give adults, teachers, and after-school providers the resources to make that difference possible.
Thoughtfully chosen
toys and activities
The Andrew Effect provides high-quality toys and activities that engage children at their appropriate age of development, from birth to high school. Toys must meet one of these specific requirements:
Promote S.T.E.A.M. learning
Develop gross and fine motor skills
Encourage problem solving
Nurture social/emotional well-being
High-quality age-appropriate books
The Andrew Effect does not distribute toys that are violent in nature or are licensed property.
“Dramatic play is a critical element of early childhood development, allowing young learners to explore their creativity, build social skills, and develop problem-solving abilities. Over time, this type of imaginative engagement fosters critical thinking and a strong foundation for collaboration and communication.”
– Dr. Sean McCarty, Assistant Superintendent for K-6 Instruction
