Over $10,000 was raised at the event plus over 200 pieces of luggage from the community.
The 2nd Annual Weichert HOPE Suitcase Drive was held on March 12, 2022 at the Vitalant building in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Over 300 volunteers, guests and local dignitaries including Albuquerque’s own Mayor Tim Keller were included on the guest list. The event was held to benefit Luggage for Kids with donations financially and luggage of all sizes and shapes.
KOB’s Kai Porter interviewed Luggage for Kids Executive Director Cynthia Clark Thompson & Weichert Reality’s Natalia Beraun at the event. Speakers for the day included: Helen Maestos the Deputy Director for Public Engagement for Mayor Tim Keller, Dominic Serna of Keller Williams Realty, Rachel Uolla of Red Mountain Family Services, Richard Hill CYFD Teen Advocate and Treatment Foster Parent Tammy Kirschaman.
Albuquerque Fire Department, Albuquerque Fire & Rescue Paramedic Unit, Isotopes Mascot Orbit, New Mexico’s Runners Mascot Rio plus Representatives from New Mexico United &representatives from the Albuquerque branch of the United States Army all were in attendance at the event.
Games were played by the kids in attendance with giveaways supplied by Red Mountain Family Serves, Weichart Reality, the United States Army and Vitalant Blood Donation. Remote controlled balloons and drones plus roaming photographers and a generously supplied lunch with cupcakes made for a festive and party like atmosphere where fun was had by all.
Not sure how we’re going to top this at next year’s event. Thanks to everyone who attended in support of Luggage for Kids