Teri Vance: Organizer wants Carson to join bandwagon — literally

Sam Hardt, founder of the Red Wagon Network, has a vision for the Nevada Day parade: To see 152 wagons being pulled down Carson Street.

“We think the little red wagon is a symbol of the playfulness, neighborliness, and freedom that together make a city a great place to live,” Hardt explained on his website. “Our red wagons are a staple at our events, and many of our community partners use them to collect donations like food, blankets, and other things our neighbors need.”

But it’s not just about the wagons. He’s looking for businesses to sponsor a red wagon for $150. Once the parade is over, they will fill the wagon with personal hygiene supplies, like soap and toothpaste and toothbrushes, to be donated to the Ron Wood Family Resource Center.

Hardt, who grew up in Carson City, founded the Reno organization as a way to help businesses connect and communities grow.

“The Red Wagon Network is a two-pronged venture designed to achieve one big goal: more community development and engagement,” the website explains. “Through our membership network and our community events, we’re connecting people to the things they love.”

Hardt stopped by my office this week to talk about his plans. He’s approaching businesses this week to seek participants. He’s hoping to get 152 in honor of Nevada’s 152nd birthday this year.

He said he’s hosted several events in Reno, particularly with the Washoe County School District’s homeless program.

He said the supplies collected in the Ron Wood Family Resource Center drive will help children in similar situations in Carson City.

Businesses will also benefit from their participation.

If one business can get five others to join, that business will receive $200 worth of services from others in the group. If 10 friends join, that business will receive $500 worth of services.

“We want you to connect with other businesses to have on your team,” Hardt said.

The drive will culminate in early December with an event at the Carson Airport where tours of an old warplane will be available.

It will end at the Carson High School main gym where the donations will be compiled along with a community event featuring a paper airplane contest. Proceeds will go to the Ron Wood Family Resource Center.

Anyone interested in sponsoring a wagon can contact Hardt at (775) 230-0580 or sam@redwagonnetwork.com. They can also register at redwagonnetwork.com.

Teri Vance is a journalist, freelance writer and native Nevadan. Contact her with column ideas at terivance@rocketmail.com.