Every December, long before the sun lifts over the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a different kind of race begins—one fueled not by engines, but by compassion. What has become one of Indianapolis’ most impactful holiday traditions returns on December 20, 2025, as the Amp Harris Foundation partners once again with Colts legend Reggie Wayne and a powerful network of community leaders to “Put a Smile on a Child’s Face for Christmas.” More than 1,000 inner-city children will receive toys, joy, and support—continuing a legacy that now spans nearly two decades.
A Tradition Rooted in Lived Experience
The origins of the toy drive are deeply personal. Founder Amp Harris, a businessman, promoter, and community servant, grew up in a single-parent household and remembers the struggle his mother faced each holiday season. Those memories shaped his mission.
“My mom did the best she could,” Harris says. “I just want to be a beacon of hope and share a small amount of peace with families who need it most.”
That promise—made from a place of gratitude and humility—became the foundation’s guiding force. What began as a small effort has now grown into an annual operation that has served more than 18,000 children ages 0–10, offering not only gifts but a touch of dignity during a season that can feel overwhelming for families in need.
Growing Impact, Growing Community
The event’s relocation in recent years to the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway symbolizes the scale and spirit of its mission. The world’s most famous racetrack transforms into a lane of giving, lined with volunteers, sponsors, and 
celebrities ready to assist families pre-approved through community organizations.
This year, Reggie Wayne returns—eager to give back to the city that embraced him throughout his NFL career.
“To stand on the track at IMS and watch families smile…it meant a lot to me,” Wayne reflects. “We all have a responsibility to give back. This is the least I can do.”
Wayne is one of many who rally around Harris. Names like Mike Epps, Edgerrin James, George Hill, Jacoby Brissett, and countless community partners—including Radio One, Indiana Black Expo, the Pacers, The Mind Trust, and the John Boner Center—represent the force behind this effort.
More Than Toys: Real Support for Real Families
While children leave with gifts in hand, families also receive access to wraparound services that make this event far more than a simple toy giveaway. This year’s support includes:
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Education resources
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Health and wellness information
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Community referrals and assistance
By expanding its reach beyond holiday cheer, the foundation addresses year-round challenges—honoring Harris’ belief that giving must extend beyond the season.
A Legacy of Leadership and Love
Amp Harris has become a quiet giant in his city: radio host, business strategist, DJ, community organizer, and advocate. Recognized with the Jefferson Award for Multiplying Good, Harris continues to build platforms that uplift others—from mental health advocacy to youth empowerment initiatives like the “Saving Our Youth” Celebrity Basketball Game.
“People gravitate to someone’s heart,” Harris says. Guided by faith, humility, and his mother’s teachings, he has built a movement grounded in unity: “No one person is greater than the next.”
How to Support
The need continues to grow—as shown when registration for this year’s event filled in just two hours. The foundation has already added 200 additional children, and support is still urgently needed.
To donate funds, toys, or services, or to sponsor a family, visit ampharrisfoundation.org.
This event is not open to the general public; families are selected through partnering organizations.
A Promise Kept, Year After Year
In a world often divided, the annual Christmas event stands as a reminder of what is possible when compassion leads. On December 20, smiles will stretch across the Indianapolis Motor Speedway—not because of tradition alone, but because one man made a promise, and a community continues to help him keep it.
Every year, Amp Harris reminds us: love moves faster than any race car.
