By James M 
More than 40 individual members and companies donated in support of The Priority Center.
LAGUNA HILLS, Calif. (August 15, 2024) – The California Association of Community Managers (CACM) completed its first Backpack Drive on July 30, collecting donations to fill more than 250 backpacks with school supplies for The Priority Center.
The drive began as part of the CACM ‘Give Back Initiative.’ The Priority Center is a nonprofit organization, based out of Santa Ana, California, that works to deliver life-changing programs to assist people in crisis. Their mission states that they work to “give them the tools and support necessary to end the generational cycle of trauma, including prevention of child abuse and neglect, through early intervention and mental health services and advocacy.”
The backpack drive began in June with a goal of 50 backpacks filled with supplies tailored to different grades. At the end of the drive, CACM collected six times more than the original goal. Along with this total, CACM received extra donations such as gift cards, extra backpacks, and other supplies.
When asked about the drive, Executive Director and CEO of The Priority Center Lisa Fujimoto said, “With 93% of our families being low income, the cost of school supplies can significantly impact parents and guardians in Orange County. Inflation has further strained families, with parents expected to spend $586 per child on back-to-school items, according to a Deloitte survey. To help alleviate this burden, The Priority Center collaborates with local corporations like CACM to fulfill school supply lists and backpacks. These items are not just school supplies; they reflect each child’s personality and boost their confidence as they start the school year.”
CACM’s Southern California regional director Alia Saouli said this outcome would not have been possible without the help of CACM members, friends, family, and even anonymous donors.
Full version of this article can be found at CACM’s website.