The heroes behind the cash registers

July 28, 2025

The annual Aprender y Crecer fundraising campaign, “Juntos por la Educación” (Together for Education), would not be possible without the commitment and energy of PriceSmart's cashiers. In many cases, they are the only point of contact between the company and its members. Without a doubt, the cashiers are the true heroes behind the campaign's success.

During the 2024 campaign, the cashiers once again demonstrated their commitment by enthusiastically explaining the Aprender y Crecer program to members and inviting them to donate. One of the keys to success has been the way the cashiers communicate with members. Empathy, clarity, and friendly treatment make all the difference.

"My secret is being kind to members, ensuring they receive good treatment when they arrive at my register, and then asking for their donation. Always with a smile, I want each member to feel good, and encourage them to donate."

Dagmara Gaitán, a cashier at PriceSmart Panama, has been recognized as one of the top fundraisers in her country during the campaign. In addition to her role as a cashier, Dagmara also volunteers to deliver school supplies and books to schools supported by the program.

Dagmara Gaitán
“I live in a community near two Aprender y Crecer schools and have volunteered to distribute supplies and books. So, when I'm at the register, my motivation is to remember the happy faces the children have when we give them their supplies. That fills me with pride.”

For her part, Verónica López, a cashier at PriceSmart El Salvador, has been the top fundraiser in her country for the past six years. Her strategy is to inform members about the Aprender y Crecer program early, well before the campaign begins.

“I start the campaign in August. From that month on, I don't exchange the reward points for members who have them, and I tell them these points are for the children. I call them my ‘pillar’ members because they donate regularly throughout the campaign.”
Verónica López

Although it's not always easy to ask for donations, Verónica encourages her colleagues to speak with each member and present the opportunity to contribute.

"It's not about me, it's about perseverance. It's about always thinking about the children and all the help we can bring them thanks to the collection."

For Luis Ramírez, a cashier at PriceSmart Guatemala, perseverance is the key to a successful campaign.

"From the first member to the last, I don't stop, because I know that every donation puts a pencil in the hand of a child who wants to learn."
Luis Ramírez

He is motivated by the knowledge that each donation translates into school supplies for the children, allowing them to continue their studies. During the campaign, he reminds his colleagues that every child expects these supplies so they can study and build a better future. His message is clear:

“Every contribution counts to transform lives.”

The “Juntos por la Educación” campaign will be active in PriceSmart clubs and on PriceSmart.com from October 17 to December 24, 2025, offering members multiple opportunities to contribute to a cause that transforms lives.

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