The UNM Children’s Campus (UNMCC) was recently awarded $10,000, thanks to Bank of Albuquerque employees, and the nomination by one grateful UNMCC parent. Each year, bank employees are encouraged to nominate a local non-profit through the Bank of Albuquerque and BOKF Guide to Giving Program.
According to Kyle Beasley, Bank of Albuquerque market CEO, the initiative gives employees who live in and deeply care about the local community the opportunity to choose where the yearly donation should go. “Their selection reflects not just their values, but their firsthand understanding of the impact this non-profit has on the people around us,” he said.
This year, Josh Miera, bank employee and parent, nominated UNMCC based on his personal experience with the exceptional care and support his son, Leo, has received through its PreK program. Leo was diagnosed with autism nearly a year ago. “As you can imagine, this was a very daunting time getting ready to send him to an early Pre-K program and not knowing how Leo would be treated and supported at school,” he said.
Daniela Baca, UNMCC director, is appreciative of the gift, which will be used to invest in supporting the diverse needs of the children they serve. “On behalf of UNM and the Children’s Campus, I want to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Bank of Albuquerque and the generous employees who made this incredible gift possible,” she said, while specifically thanking Miera for his advocacy. “Your support means so much to us,” Baca said. “Thank you for believing in our work, our families, and the importance of early childhood education.”
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