Scottsdale's Russ Lyon Foundation partnered with Arizona Helping Hands and was able to collect 3,200 backpacks filled with supplies for its back-to-school drive and mobile unit distribution.

As part of its ongoing commitment to the community, Arizona Helping Hands launched a mobile unit dedicated to distributing backpacks filled with supplies to foster children, while also extending services and assistance to families statewide, according to a press release. The organization set a goal of filling approximately 7,500 backpacks this year, each designed to equip children with the tools they need for a successful school year.

Numerous Russ Lyon Foundation volunteers supported the pop-up shops in Flagstaff, Prescott and Tucson. Each pop-up event hosted by Arizona Helping Hands served about 100 children, ensuring that each child received a backpack filled with essential supplies.

The foundation’s dedication to supporting Arizona Helping Hands is evident in its participation for the second year running. Its volunteers have played a pivotal role in the success of the back-to-school drive, contributing their time and effort to pack backpacks for children in tribal nations and assembling birthday bags for the youngest members of the foster community.

In the spirit of friendly competition, Russ Lyon Foundation offices came together to collect backpacks and monetary donations, initially setting a goal of 1,000 backpacks. With the overwhelming response from the offices, this goal was surpassed with 3,200 backpacks collected, according to the release.

“We are thrilled with the success of this year’s back-to-school drive with Arizona Helping Hands,” Russ Lyon Foundation President Stephanie Stewart said in the release. “Witnessing the collective efforts of our volunteers, donors and community members coming together to support these children and families is truly heartwarming.”

The Russ Lyon Foundation is continuing its community involvement by partnering up with KLOVE radio station as it hosts a statewide backpack drive for Arizona Helping Hands throughout the months of August and September. All 13 Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty offices will serve as drop-off locations for listeners looking to contribute to this cause. The extended collection period will allow for a sustained effort to gather more backpacks, culminating in an inventory assessment at the end of September.

The Russ Lyon Foundation is dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of children and families in need, the release stated. By collaborating with Arizona Helping Hands, their joint efforts amplify the support provided to foster children as they embark on a new school year. This partnership exemplifies the spirit of community and compassion that lies at the heart of both organizations.