Beginning last week, Esperanza volunteers started servicing concession operations at Petco Park, the new home of the San Diego Padres, during Padres' home games. "Since we began the Esperanza organization it has been my primary goal to establish a secure, recurring fund-raising source. This is it," says Alan Cox, director of the Esperanza organization.

Sheila and Reed, Esperanza volunteers, help out at the new Petco park.
"This is an incredible opportunity for us and a huge step toward the attention needed for capital acquisitions. Even so, every member of Esperanza, including winter guard, winter percussion and drum corps, will get a chance to earn funds to offset their fees," Cox said. Esperanza serves over 200 members with Esperanza de Luz Open and World Winter guards, Esperanza Winter Percussion Ensemble, Esperanza Drum and Bugle Corps and the San Diego Brass Ensemble. Under the supervision of Esperanza concession manager Barbara Giddens, the organization will provide staff for concession sales under the direction of Petco Park Concessionaires during San Diego Padre home stands. "It was a perfect fit to bring Barbara on board as she has managed this same type of operation before. She is very experienced in this area and has high hopes for success," Cox said. Related news: Boston Crusaders work at New England Patriots game.