Record-Setting First Day of Distribution

The first day of distribution was a record-setting, wildly successful day. We served 1,150 children, 51 more than the 1,100 we planned, shattering all records for kids served in a single day. Congratulations to everyone - our brainstorming and planning paid off.

Seven-year old Keathon Wright (above), a 2nd grader attending Desert Garden Elementary School in Glendale and guest of Mickey Lund, attended Distribution for the first time. Keathon brought with him a pair of shorts and pants that were too small. He said he wanted to give them to us so we could give it to someone else that they fit. His spirit and thoughtfulness blew me away. For his generosity I told him I would give him not one but two pairs of sneakers. His responded, “does that mean I get four sneakers?” Yes, I said and little Keathon’s eyes lit up like a sparkler on the fourth of July. On his way out after shopping he came to see me to say thank you and gave me a hug. That is why we love this charity, and that’s why I consider it a privilege to be your executive director.

Thanks to the 294 volunteers that shopped, stocked, and supported us today. Special thanks to Anita Heldt, Suzanne Stanton, Ann Weishaar and the rest of the 12News team for volunteering this morning. Others volunteers today included National Charities League – Camelback & Phoenix Chapters; Boys Team Charities, including former Phoenix Suns center Tim Kempton; the Do Crew from US Airways; Intel; Valley Presbyterian Church; LDS Glendale Institute; Meadows Middle School; Hampton Inn and Suites Scottsdale; Social Venture Partners; Telecomm Pioneers; USAA; and Wells Fargo.

Thank you to Tim and the rest of the Western Destinations team for your unconditional support. Transforming the gymnasium into a department store cannot be done with out you. And to all of the board members who gave their time this morning, Bravo! Well done team, we hit the ball out of the park. See you tomorrow morning at 7 a.m. Our first kids walk through the doors at 8 a.m. sharp.