It’s the season of giving, and the Harley Owners Group (HOG) of Suffolk County recently celebrated its 40th annual toy drive at Little Flower.
This milestone officially makes it the longest-running holiday toy drive on Long Island. What began as a small act of kindness four decades ago has grown into a beloved tradition for both the riders and the children they serve.
Each year, HOG members ride into Little Flower in Wading River in a festive motorcycle parade, bringing the sound of engines, holiday spirit, and excitement to campus. Their mission remains the same: to deliver joy and support to the students through thoughtful gifts and a memorable visit that the children look forward to all season long.
It takes place every year, on the second Sunday in December. The first toy run took place on December 21, 1985. The event has become deeply embedded in both the biker community and the local nonprofit outreach tradition, combining holiday spirit with charitable giving and bringing together riders, volunteers, staff, and children.
“The motorcycle procession always brings about excitement to our youth, and watching the riders arrive with toys for all reminds us why this event is such a special part of the holiday season every year,” stated Kerri Smith, Little Flower’s Chief Operating Officer. “It truly brings our community together in celebration and giving.”
With holiday music playing, motorcycles decorated in Christmas-themed attire, and a warm buffet set up for both students and riders, the day felt nearly picture-perfect. The parade itself is organized entirely by volunteers, all sharing the same goal: to bring holiday cheer and create a joyful, memorable experience for the children of Little Flower.
Tim Turner, the director of HOG, has overseen the event for the past two years, continuing the tradition with the same dedication and enthusiasm that have defined the toy drive for decades, with participation growing each year.
For many riders, returning to Little Flower each December has become a personal tradition, reflecting the values of service, compassion, and community. For the children, many of whom reside on campus or receive support through Little Flower’s programs, the arrival of the motorcycles symbolizes a moment of joy during the holiday season and a reminder that the community is thinking of them.
As the event concluded, volunteers expressed gratitude for another successful year and for the continued support from the Suffolk County riding community. Even after 40 years, the enthusiasm for the toy drive remains as strong as ever, with organizers already looking toward next year’s celebration. For HOG, Little Flower, and the many children who benefit from this tradition, the annual toy run stands as a powerful reminder of the impact that generosity and a tight-knit community can have during the holiday season.
