Houston…we have a problem.”
Americans are GREAT at solving problems! Remember the triumphant safe return of our Astronauts? Right now there is a big problem with one of our most vulnerable groups of citizens – disadvantaged and homeless children. These children are approaching Back to School, just like millions of children across the United States – but have a problem…a lack of the basic necessities needed to start school off on the right foot.
A Backpack Filled with all The Right Stuff
Fortunately there is a group of heroes out there ready to help! Julie, a member of our Inside Sales Team and outstanding mother of five, brought our attention to a program near and dear to her heart. Volunteers of America, a non-profit organization in the Sacramento/Yolo County area, administer a program called Operation Backpack that offers services to local disadvantaged families. One of the key services at this time of year is supplying backpacks filled with school supplies to give children all the advantages they deserve to start the school year on a positive note. After hearing about this praiseworthy project I couldn’t help but get involved… I have a passion for kids and a soft spot in my heart for those that have the will to learn, but lack the means to easily navigate the educational process.
Kristin Sporting Her Donated Backpack
I jumped at the opportunity to work with Volunteers of America – and honestly had a blast roaming through the aisles of our local retailer, picking out the perfect Hannah Montana backpack, then filling it with a binder, super cool markers, crayons, pens, pencils, etc. It was all the fun of school shopping without the stress of going to class! Julie and I filled up several backpacks for the kids, and had a ball doing it. Julie’s son asked where his backpack was…and he’s 23! We can’t wait until next year when we do this again…although we shouldn’t wait, since Volunteers of America collects backpacks throughout the entire year.
Operation Backpack has collected 2,938 backpacks so far this year – double the donations from last year! Even in a tough economy people see the importance of investing in our children’s future. If you have a desire to help our country’s children get a head start on a valuable and needed education, please contact Volunteers of America to see how you can assist. The children will thank you!
Le Top blog 
Kristin, thank you for the wonderfully warm posting! Volunteers of America couldn’t have done so well without the generous support of donors such as yourself and Julie! With 5,000 homeless children in Sacramento County alone – and more than 40,000 living below the poverty line – the need for these backpacks is obvious. School is tough enough for kids without being singled out by your peers for not having a nice new backpack like everyone else, or for not having the right tools. We look forward to seeing you next year! Barry Wisdom, Public Relations & Marketing Officer, Volunteers of America
Barry! It was our pleasure to help support these children. Julie and I had such a wonderful time putting the backpacks together, we were like kids in a candy store shopping for the necessary items. Our hearts go out these children and anything we can do to help, we will. Thank you for being an integral part of this fabulous organization.