About Nevada County Toy Run
It started with a few riders.
It grew into something much bigger.
Since 1991, riders, volunteers and neighbors have come together to support Nevada County children and families — at Christmas and throughout the year.
2025 Toy Run impact
Local families supported by a community that shows up.
Our story
From a Few Riders to a Nevada County Tradition
In founder Thom Staser’s account, it began with a simple idea: help local children at Christmas.
1991 — Four Riders, One Idea
Under the South Auburn Street overpass, four riders began talking about helping local children at Christmas. Among them was founder and longtime organizer Thom Staser.
The First Toy Run — About 90 Motorcycles
Only weeks later, roughly 90 motorcycles took part, helping children and families connected with Nevada County Head Start.
Three Decades of Leadership
For approximately 30 years, Thom organized and helped lead the Toy Run as participation grew into hundreds — and in some years, thousands — of motorcycles.
Today — More Than a Ride
The annual ride remains at the heart of NCTR. The support surrounding it now includes holiday gifts and groceries, A Ride For Hope, back-to-school assistance, and community partnerships.
“Every Child Will Have A Christmas... We Will Make Sure!”
The Riders & the Ride
For riders, the day starts long before the motorcycles begin moving. Hundreds — and sometimes thousands — of bikes gather at the Rood Center, as friends reconnect, motorcycle clubs and independent riders line up together, and the crowd continues to build.
Then, at noon, it’s KSU (Kickstands Up).
The procession rolls through Nevada City and Grass Valley, where families and spectators line the route before the riders continue to the Nevada County Fairgrounds. Seeing and hearing that seemingly endless line of motorcycles has become part of the holiday season.
The motorcycles bring us together. The mission gives us a reason to ride.
Events
More Than a Ride
The commitment continues beyond December. Through A Ride For Hope and local partnerships, NCTR helps children start the school year with shoes, backpacks and supplies.
NCTR direct contribution · 2026
Supporting back-to-school outreach
Through A Ride For Hope, Nevada County Toy Run provided resources to Hope for Nevada County to support its broader back-to-school effort.
600+pairs of shoes
100+backpacks
Manyschool supplies
Hope for Nevada County’s 2026 event totals
Partner-reported event impact · 2026
Hope for Nevada County’s broader effort
Hope for Nevada County reported the following overall results for its 2026 event. These are partner-reported totals, not quantities supplied solely by NCTR.
1,200backpacks filled with school supplies
1,300pairs of shoes
2,500bags of groceries
3,000+attendees, plus free haircuts and family resources
Community partners work alongside NCTR. Our sponsors provide financial support; some organizations contribute in both ways.
Where Your Support Goes
Support reaches local families in practical ways, depending on the season and current community needs.
Ways to GiveChristmas gifts, books & clothing
Items distributed primarily through the annual Toy Run to help children and families during the holiday season.
Holiday groceries
Food and meal support provided during the Toy Run.
Shoes
New shoes provided through back-to-school and community-support efforts.
Backpacks & school supplies
Helping local students start the school year with what they need.
Other local family support
Additional assistance provided when needs arise and resources allow.
Leadership & Governance
Nevada County Toy Run is volunteer-led, with a board of directors responsible for guiding the organization, protecting its mission, and making sure the resources entrusted to NCTR support local children and families.
Transparency
We are committed to sharing clear information about our work and how community support helps local families.
Our Leadership
- Eric OliverPresident
- Shannon BuehlerVice President
- Chelci BuehlerChief Financial Officer
- Samantha TroySecretary
- Michael CurtisDirector
- Edward PeevyDirector
Be Part of What Comes Next
Whether you arrive on two wheels or simply want to help, there is a place for you in the Nevada County Toy Run community.