Alabama A&M University alumnus Emondre Johnson has built two thriving community-focused ventures in Birmingham – one for families and one for their pets. Earlier this year, Johnson, a 2020 animal science graduate, opened The Bark Park, a pet-care destination offering daycare, grooming, boarding, and professional pet photography. The business reflects his lifelong love for animals and his desire to create a welcoming space where pet owners feel supported and connected.

But long before The Bark Park opened its doors, Johnson had already launched another mission-driven effort in his hometown: Eastern Toys. Founded in 2017 while he was a freshman at AAMU, Eastern Toys has grown into a citywide holiday initiative that provides Christmas gifts to children across Birmingham.

What began as a small effort has now supported more than 500 children since its founding. Each year, Eastern Toys partners with schools, churches, community leaders and donors to identify families in need. While its heart is rooted in East Lake, the organization serves families across the Birmingham area through school referrals and community partnerships.

This year, Eastern Toys has expanded those partnerships, working with Barrett Elementary, the Southern Museum of Flight, local churches, community leaders and individual donors who “adopt” children and families for the holidays. Johnson said these collaborations allow the nonprofit to reach more families and create meaningful holiday experiences that go beyond toy distribution.

“We don’t just hand out gifts; we build relationships,” Johnson said. “Every donation – big or small – stays right here in Birmingham and directly impacts a child.”

The organization is currently accepting donations for its 2025 toy drive. Donors can contribute new, unused and unopened toys, and more on this list. Johnson said the community’s generosity helps ensure that no child goes without a holiday experience.

Last year, Eastern Toys partnered with the Southern Museum of Flight to host an Aviation Christmas Experience, a holiday event that brought families together for hands-on activities, treats and a surprise toy distribution. The partnership returns this year, with the museum collecting toys in exchange for admission throughout the holiday season. Johnson said the collaboration not only expands the nonprofit’s reach, but also exposes children to aviation and new possibilities for their futures.

Families apply for assistance through school counselors, social workers and community organizations. Though applications are closed for this year, Eastern Toys has already received hundreds of requests from families seeking support.

Johnson said he remains grateful for the foundation he built at AAMU and continues to look for ways to expand his impact. He hopes that both Eastern Toys and The Bark Park will soon extend their reach, potentially including a future location in Huntsville.

“I started at AAMU and now I’m here, so I will always represent Alabama A&M,” he said.

As Johnson reflects on the nonprofit he built at age 18, he says the mission has always remained the same. “Eastern Toys was built on love, community and the belief that every child deserves to feel seen and celebrated.” 

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