Firefighters and VerdeCares staff take a break from the breakfast bustle to pose for a photo with Santa. (Submitted photo/VerdeCares)

Michael C. Loebach

The annual holiday firefighters’ pancake breakfast hosted by the Rio Verde Fire District earlier this month brought a record 440 attendees who enjoyed secret recipe chocolate chip, blueberry and plain pancakes.

The benefit raised $17,250 in contributions for VerdeCares in support of its mission to help neighbors in their time of need. 

“We appreciate the support of all our firefighters from United Scottsdale Local 5050.  We are proud to be an integral part of our lower Verde communities and to be able to provide before and after 911 call support to our neighbors,” said Vicki Beseke, VerdeCares executive director. “Special thank you to our VerdeCares volunteers for your support at this event.”

Santa dropped by from the North Pole and was busy taking photos with all the young visitors and friends.  Sanderson Ford was once again a participant in the event as an official location of Operation Santa Claus.  More than 200 children’s gifts and food items were contributed to Operation Santa Claus.  Music was provided by KNIX radio who had on-air personalities attending the breakfast event.

“VerdeCares’ vision is community well-being through the simple act of neighbors helping neighbors,” Beseke added. “Whether we are providing no charge services such as transportation, meals, help with grocery shopping, family respite, medication management and more, our goal is to be here for our neighbors when they need us. Bringing people together to help others and giving opportunities for donors to make a difference, these acts are all life changing.”