Backpacks That Carry More Than Supplies: Televerde Foundation’s Annual Backpack Drive

CEO Michelle Cirocco with board member Jim Alexander and Analiese Alexander at the Televerde Foundation Backpack Fundraiser.

Every summer, the Televerde Foundation community comes together to do something simple yet life-changing: fill backpacks with school supplies for the children of incarcerated mothers.

But this isn’t just about notebooks and pencils — it’s about sending a message. A message that says: You are not forgotten. You are loved. You are ready to thrive.

Because of your generosity, more than 250 children of mothers in our programs walked into school this year fully equipped to succeed — and most importantly, they walked in knowing their mother’s love and support reach them, even from behind prison walls.

The Impact of Their Words

“We are very appreciative of Televerde for the book bags and school supplies! My grandchildren are school ready.” — Family of Aimee Gross

“Watching my children open their packages brought my mother to tears. With six children, keeping up with their needs is always a challenge, and your program has alleviated some of that burden. My six-year-old with special needs hasn’t taken her backpack off since it arrived. She believes I picked it out just for her. This program blessed our family in a unique and beautiful way.” — Amy Gonzalez, backpack recipient mom

“My 10-year-old daughter was so excited. Thank you so much for impacting my family in a positive way.” — Caitlin Johnson

These voices remind us: every backpack is more than a bag of supplies. It’s confidence. It’s hope. It’s proof that second chances ripple outward, touching families and communities.

Thank You to Our Supporters

This drive wouldn’t be possible without our incredible partners and volunteers: U.S. Bank, Salt River Project, MHG Commercial Real Estate, Jim and Analiese Alexander, our Televerde Foundation graduates, employees, and countless donors.

Your generosity packed the bags, lifted burdens, and lit up smiles.

From Backpacks to Year-Round Impact

Backpacks help kids start the school year ready. But lasting change takes more than one moment a year. That’s why we created Pathfinders—to ensure moms have the year-round support they need to succeed after incarceration, and to keep hope moving forward for their families.

Your monthly gift provides career training, mentorship, and reentry support that transforms second chances into lasting change. Because when moms succeed, children see stability, families reunite stronger, and communities grow safer.

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