"Our footprint from Florida to California gives up to $100,000.00 a week in donations to 501-3(C) non-profit organizations across the country," stated Herrera who is the branch manager for Compass at their downtown location, "These organizations have until September 30th each year to submit their applications."

"I'm very glad and this is the third year we are lucky enough to receive this donation," Alfonso Mallen, Director of the EP Boys & Girls Club informed The News Gram, "I want to thank God for opening these doors for us as well as BBVA Compass for their help each year."

Mallen says that many children will ultimately benefit from these funds as they have organized team sports in basketball and soccer as well as individual sports such as boxing.  Some of the EPB&G Club boxers were even on hand to receive the award.

"We are very proud to receive the funds and will begin mentoring kids this coming month," said Diana Sanchez who serves on the advisory board of the Big Brothers, Big Sisters Program, "We thank the business sector in supporting us during our fund raising campaign." 

"All 24 schools have provided us with names of children who can benefit from our program," stated Herrera who also serves on the board for the Big Brother Program, "The screening process is beginning and, granted, we need the mentors, but once this process is done we will begin to make the matches, but we're looking for at least a two year commitment and the program has proven to be really successful."

These mentors will of course provide the guidance of a big brother or a big sister for a child who is in need of a positive role model in their lives.

The other non-profit organization who received a $1,000.00 donation was the US Border Patrol Explorers, but Yamilka Patterson and Stephanie Anaya were not available for comment.

The Eagle Pass News Gram salutes BBVA Compass for reaching out to the community and providing these vital organizations with much needed funds to be able to continue serving the needs of our youth in Eagle Pass and Maverick County.