Steve Schwab, Founder and Chairman of the Board of Casago, is currently walking 200.4 miles from Phoenix, Arizona, to Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point), Sonora, Mexico, to raise money for the Mexico Children's Foundation. Schwab began his journey on October 9, 2026, and expects to reach Rocky Point in about 8-10 days. The route follows State Route 85 south through Gila Bend and Ajo, across roughly 40 miles of open Sonoran Desert with no services, then crosses into Mexico for the final stretch to the Sea of Cortés. Despite storms this past week, locals have joined him or pulled over to take selfies, demonstrating community support.
This walk is not just a physical feat; it is a critical fundraising effort for a cause that has personal significance for Schwab. "People ask why I keep doing this. It's simple. Rocky Point gave me my start, and the community became my family. When I founded the Mexico Children's Foundation back in 2003, the walk was an opportunity to make a statement that children are our future and no child should be left behind because of medical or economic challenges," said Schwab. This year marks his 15th walk, a long-running tradition that underscores his commitment to the foundation's mission.
The implications of this announcement extend beyond the immediate fundraising goal. The Mexico Children's Foundation provides financial support for medical care and educational enrichment for children in Mexico. Over the years, it has funded life-saving procedures for children like Ana Paula Medina Gonzales, who was diagnosed with a malignant tumor in her head at age 7, and Sarahi Acedo, who needed a tracheostomy at birth and is now about to celebrate her quinceañera. These stories highlight the tangible impact of the foundation's work and the importance of continued support. This year's fundraising goal is $70,000. As of October 12, the walk has raised $23,000, more than one-third of its goal. US donations are tax-deductible. Those interested in contributing can donate here: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/donate-to-change-a-childs-life-one-at-a-time. For more information about the foundation, visit mexicochildrensfoundation.org.
Schwab's background as a former Army Ranger and New Mexico State University graduate adds a layer of resilience to the endeavor. He started SeaSide Reservations in Rocky Point, managing vacation homes for owners, which later grew into Casago International, a vacation rental management franchise, and still operates locally as Casago Rocky Point. His entrepreneurial success and dedication to the community have made him a notable figure in the region, and his annual walk has become a symbol of hope and solidarity. The funds raised will directly support children facing medical and economic challenges, ensuring they receive necessary care and opportunities. As Schwab continues his journey, the walk serves as a reminder of the power of individual action to drive meaningful change and the ongoing need for philanthropic support in the region.
