Fort Yuma Rotarians contribute to a successful school year!

Studies have shown that academic success is strongly linked to good health and a positive attitude.  By providing these kids with the supplies and clothing they may not have otherwise been able to afford, we are sending them to school well prepared and confident.  Beginning the school year with confidence can greatly affect motivation and provide a child with the enthusiasm he or she will need to persevere and adapt to the challenges of a new school year.

Volunteers from the Fort Yuma Rotary Club, their families and high school Interact members arrived at the JC Penny’s store at the Yuma Palms Mall at 6:45 am to begin their shopping spree.  JC Penny’s opened the store an hour early and provided additional discounts (on top of the regular special sales prices) to the 25 children, allowing the $100 dollars each that the Fort Yuma Rotary donated to go further. 

The Aiello Eye Institute provided backpacks for every child. Tom Rush, with Yuma Investment Group, gave each child a new watch. Brad and Tanya Sackrider DDS provided dental care kits along with a cash contribution. Other monetary contributions were received by Dr. Robert Barnett, Dr. Christopher Moor and Yuma Vision Center.  All of the backpacks were filled with school supplies.

The Back to School Shopping Spree event was fun and rewarding for all involved.  A special thanks to all of the sponsors, volunteers and to all of the organizations who provided the opportunity for these kids.  We look forward to making the event even more successful next year!

Marlene Aiello

Back to School Shopping Committee Chair