The California Alarm Association Winter Convention and Western Security Conference in San Francisco hosted special guest Mission 500, a nonprofit initiative focusing its efforts on the security industry and dedicated to serving the needs of children and communities in crisis.

CAA offered space and a platform for Mission 500 to promote itself at the event on the West Coast, and sent out information on the charity in the registration packages in advance of the event. An introductory article was also placed on the front page of CAA’s monthly newsletter, The Mirror.

As part of the efforts to raise money at the event, Pelco donated a DX 4000 Series DVR for a prize drawing, and raffle tickets were offered at $20 each. The winner was Deanna Blair of Emergency 24.

The goal of Mission 500 is to sponsor 500 needy children through World Vision’s child sponsorship program. It is a volunteer-driven initiative, and 100 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.

During the conference, George Fletcher, advisory board member of Mission 500, announced that HID Global has become a platinum sponsor and will offer 30 free child sponsorship packages to its staff.

HID Global, an ASSA ABLOY group brand, will promote the charity within the organization to motivate other staff members to join in and support the initiative. In the second year, the first 30 staff members will have the option of continuing with the child sponsorship and HID Global will co-fund with 50 percent of the ongoing monthly costs.

HID also donated $5,000 to Mission 500 in 2007, bringing the total funds collected since its launch in Mexico in April 2007 to more than $44,000.

Mission 500 currently sponsors 130 needy children. Corporate sponsors and donors include Altronix, HID Corp., LRG Communications, 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.