ABQ Times

The City of Albuquerque joined the Corporate Volunteer Council of New Mexico (CVCNM) for their annual drive to raise funds and collect school supplies to help APS students prepare for the Fall school year.

Fourteen members of the CVCNM, an association of businesses, government agencies, and nonprofits united to promote volunteerism among employees, participated in the drive for the APS Clothing Bank and Supply Barn. First Lady Kistin Keller and Superintendent Dr. Blakey discussed the impact of the drive and how members partnered across sectors to benefit students.

“Each year, this initiative is a reminder of how much power we have to do good in our communities when we all work together toward a shared goal,” said First Lady Elizabeth Kistin Keller. “We know how important it is for our kids to have the right supplies heading into the school year, and we hope that this support helps families and students feel prepared for the year ahead.”

CVCNM members provided supplies and over $26,000 to the APS Clothing Bank and Supply Barn which served over 3,600 students last year. Community members, businesses, and local organizations donated dozens of boxes and backpacks at drop-off locations at member sites, museums, libraries, and animal shelters. Amazon ABQ1 provided 95 backpacks full of supplies.

A local car club partnered with a senior group to overflow the donation box at the Balloon Museum.

One City staff donor noted that she chose certain supplies to donate because they reminded her of one of the best times of her life.

“Thanks to the CVCNM and the City of Albuquerque for once again coming together to support the most vulnerable students as their families continue to rely on community resources. Providing basic school supplies ensures that students can come to school ready to learn from day one,” said Vaisu Desai Bronk, APS Manager, Volunteer Programs and Special Projects.

“The members of CVCNM unite their time and resources to tackle our community's most pressing challenges through volunteerism, financial support, and advocacy. The success of our over 10 years of hosting our school supply drive exemplifies what can be achieved when we work together for the greater good,” said Hena Torres, CVCNM Board Chair.

“The goal of CVCNM is to bring business leaders and organizations together to promote community engagement and volunteerism among their employees. Together we increase our impact, strengthen the bond between business and community, and foster a culture of social responsibility,” said Clair Anderson, CVCNM Board Chair Elect.

Participating CVCNM organizations:

APS

AON Risk Solutions

Bernalillo County

City of Albuquerque

Fidelity Investments

Gap Inc.

Hart Construction

NM Department of Workforce Solutions

NM Gas Company

PNM

Rio Grande Credit Union

Sandia Labs Federal Credit Union (SLFCU)

Sandia National Labs

United Way of North Central New Mexico