Mission 500, an important non-profit initiative focusing its efforts on the security industry and dedicated to serving the needs of children and communities in crisis, raised $1,800 during the recent Americas Fire and Security Expo.

At a cocktail party hosted by Spanish security trade publication, Ventas de Seguridad on July 25, and coinciding with Americas Fire and Security Expo in Miami, Mission 500 volunteers sold raffle tickets and raised more than $1,800. This brings total funds collected since its launch in Mexico in April to over $38,000.

 

ATI (Access Technologies Inc.) donated a four-door access control system (complete with controller, readers, cards, and software) and raffle tickets were offered at $25 each.

 

The goal of Mission 500 is to sponsor 500 needy children through World Vision’s child sponsorship program. One hundred percent of the funds raised are channeled directly to World Vision. The globally renowned humanitarian organization provides food, clothing and education to those truly in need.

 

Lisa Torres, area director, of World Vision in Miami drew the prize-winning ticket. The winner of the draw was Carlos Guillermo Mejía of G6 SEGURIDAD in San Salvador, El Salvador.

 

During a brief speech Torres acknowledged the efforts of Mission 500 volunteers and spoke of the importance of child sponsorship. She told the story of 25-year-old Mayerly Sanchez from Colombia who had received World Vision support, and has recently been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.

 

Eduardo Vargas, president of ATI said, “It gives me great pleasure to contribute to this worthy cause. Please let us know how we can play a role in the future.”

 

Based on the importance of the cause, several other security products manufacturers also expressed interest in donating products to Mission 500 for future fund-raising auctions or raffles.

 

Mission 500 currently sponsors over 100 needy children. Corporate sponsors and donors include Altronix, Exposeguridad Mexico, SIA (Security Industry Association) and DMF. For more information on contributions or sponsorships visit www.mission500.org or contact George Fletcher at: pr@mission500.org or (786) 276-7110.