Batman goes to Mexicali
Last week, a video went viral on social media that showed a man dressed as a superhero cruising the streets of Mexicali.
The video was captured by the corner of Benito Juárez and Independencia Avenue, right where Lucerna Hotel is located.
Dressed in a black cape and driving a black motorcycle, the man had many wondering if the movie character left the silver screen and traveled to the state capital city in order to combat criminals, given the high crime rates that had left thousands of victims every year due to burglaries, robberies and assaults.
Unfortunately for crime victims, this was not the masked man’s mission. Nevertheless, the truth is inspiring.
It all started with several member of a local gym deciding to sign up for a personal growth seminar held September in Ensenada. Out of that experience the founding members of this group found the value of helping others and discovered a newfound mission to provide a helping hand to some of the most vulnerable members of Mexicali.
A black costume was imported from Canada. A few others were purchased as well. The group uses these to raise funds and give back to those in need. And so, Súperheroes de vida or Super Heroes of Life was born.
Leading the group is a local resident whose family has had a small business for years. Mexicali’s Batman, along with Spiderman, Thor, Captain America, Flash and others join forces to cruise around the city and ask for support from community members. According to videos posted on the organization’s Facebook page, group members have gathered at the Civic Center, parks and other places seeking funds.
In exchange for an opportunity to have a picture with Batman, fans must first make a donation.
The group has also made arrangements with Carl’s Jr. to appear at that restaurant chain’s locations around the city.
As of today, the group has purchased air conditioning units and installed a perimeter fence at the Casa Hogar Fratello orphan shelter. But much more is yet to come.
Right after the video was posted on social media, local residents had turned their attention toward the group and its objectives. Media outlets had opened their doors as well and held interviews with group members, especially the Dark Knight.
His costume and manners are so impressive one might think Mexicali is now home of the “real” Bruce-Wayne-turned-Batman. But besides driving a borrowed black Yamaha motorcycle and a red Ford Mustang with Batman insignia, the “cachanilla” Batman also pays visits to sick children at local hospitals.
Although the group began its activities last month, the sudden media attention has led thousands to its Facebook page. As of Wednesday night, 54 page visitors had given five-star grades to the group. With no exception, all visitors had congratulated members for their valuable activity.
In a recent interview, Super Heroes of Life member Iris Díaz said the group has plans to become a non-profit, which would open doors of public and private money donations.
In the meantime, if you are interested in helping the group, you can call at 011-52-686-185-7296. Many children would indirectly thank you for your support.