Totes of Appreciation is a nonprofit founded in 2022 by Thom Gober with one goal: to support and celebrate local teachers. After seeing how much educators spend out of their own pockets for classroom supplies, Thom worked with the mall’s corporate office to create an event that gives back—by providing teachers with free, supply-filled totes and a day of appreciation. What started as one event quickly grew. With the help our sponsors, we’ve now served over 1,400 teachers across multiple counties. Each year, we’re proud to grow this mission and show our gratitude to the educators who give so much.