Employees donate over 1,400 backpacks, surpassing last year’s total

As summer ends and a new school year begins, families across the region prepare children with backpacks, supplies and other essentials for success. For many children experiencing homelessness, living in foster care or facing financial hardship, those basic supplies can be difficult to obtain.

Through the annual Operation Backpack drive, Volunteers of America (VOA) helps bridge that gap by providing backpacks filled with school supplies and other essential resources to thousands of children throughout the Sacramento and Reno regions.

UC Davis Health employees have supported Operation Backpack since 2009, continuing a long-standing tradition of generosity and community partnership.

This year, employees donated more than 1,400 fully stocked backpacks, exceeding last year's incredible total of 1,160 backpacks that ensured even more local children will begin the school year equipped for success.

A community united in giving

For many participants, Operation Backpack is more than a donation drive. It is an opportunity to make a tangible impact on children and families throughout the community.

Shannon Nueske, executive director, Ambulatory Operations, said the annual tradition holds special meaning for her.

Nueske shared, “I was thrilled to learn that this year’s Operation Backpack donations surpassed last year’s total. This program is especially meaningful to me because nearly 20 years ago, when I adopted my two younger siblings, our family was a recipient of Operation Backpack.”

“I know firsthand how much these donations can mean to a family in need,” Nueske added. “Being able to participate today is deeply personal and reflects the impact we can have when we come together as an organization to support our community.”

The Ambulatory Care Division once again supported the effort, donating 242 fully stocked backpacks, an increase of 74 backpacks over last year. Brenda Bowden of Ambulatory Operations credited the Ambulatory Care teams for their consistent generosity and compassion, noting that the teams continue to show up when opportunities arise to support those in need.

UC Davis Health’s Operation Backpack steering committee recognized Eddie Chung of Everest Backpack for his continued annual support of Operation Backpack. His ongoing commitment to the effort has helped expand the program’s impact for children and families served through the drive.

Krupa Savalia, assistant professor, Department of Neurological Surgery, reflected on her experience.

Savalia said, “Representing the Department of Neurological Surgery in this year’s backpack drive was a privilege, but assembling the backpacks side-by-side with my seven-year-old daughter made it truly unforgettable. Passing down the importance of community and sharing the pure joy of giving with my daughter created memories we will cherish for years. Our department is so proud to support this mission and looks forward to partnering on future drives.”

The Porter Construction Company was also recognized for its continued annual contribution to Operation Backpack, made on behalf of Porter Construction employee, William Davis. The company’s support helps ensure the spirit of giving and care for others continues to benefit the community.

The continued support of community partners, including Eddie Chung and the Porter Construction Company, reflects the broader impact that can be achieved when employees and local organizations work together to help children start the school year prepared and confident.

Across UC Davis Health, departments participated through friendly competition, team-building activities and a shared commitment to service. Together with community partners, this year’s effort demonstrated the power of collective giving and the difference it can make for children and families throughout the region.

Celebrating a lasting legacy

This year's campaign also marks a special milestone as Lisa Eller, nurse manager, leads her final Operation Backpack drive before her retirement.  

Lisa has helped coordinate and

champion this beloved tradition, inspiring countless employees to give back and helping thousands of children begin the school year with confidence. Her leadership, dedication, and passion for serving our community have been instrumental in the continued success and growth of Operation Backpack at UC Davis Health.

Colleagues recognized Eller for her years of service and unwavering commitment to the program.

Lisa Eller reflects on her time running Operation Backpack.

Eller said, “Operation Backpack has been a very special part of my time at UC Davis Health. I’ve loved seeing our employees come together every year to support local children and families. As I get ready to retire, I’m thankful I had the opportunity to help lead this effort and to see how much it has grown. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together and know this tradition will continue to make a difference.”

To learn more about the impact of backpack donations, watch the short video, What Does Having a Backpack Mean?

The success of this year’s drive reflects the contributions of UC Davis Health employees who donated, volunteered, organized and encouraged others to participate. Their collective efforts helped make a meaningful difference in the lives of more than 1,400 children and their families.