The average back to school supply list can cost over $100, which is not feasible for many families in Metro Denver.
That is where Mile High United Way comes in. Our annual Back to School Bash provides school-age children with their school supply list and parents and teachers with additional resources to ensure our community members are ready for a successful school year. This event aligns with one of our three Community Priorities, Supporting Education and Academic Success, which focuses on building educational success through partnerships with schools, families, and communities.
Earlier this month, we held multiple pack-a-thons to fill hundreds of backpacks with essential supplies, and then held a drive-through distribution in the Mile High United Way parking lot on August 7, 2021. Because of our incredible volunteers, corporate and community partners, and everyone who donated school supplies and resources, we were able to serve 600 children this year! That’s 600 students that will start the year off strong and ready to learn.
In total, 88 volunteers gave 120 hours of their time to making this event such a success. This event also wouldn’t have been possible without our Presenting Sponsor, Crocs, and Volunteerism Sponsors, Band-It and FirstBank. A special thank you to the U.S. Bank Good Truck for handing out sack lunches to every family during the event and to KS107.5 for running impressive supply drives that helped us reach more families this year.
Here’s what parents had to say about the event:
“It helps out with the pandemic. I really needed help this year.” – Sabrina
“Because of the pandemic, the Back to School Bash is a lot easier on us parents. It helps the community.” – Yesenia
We were so moved to see the kids’ excitement for the new school year. When one mother arrived with her six children to pick up school supplies, the kids rushed to the backpack table. While they were picking out their favorite superhero and unicorn backpacks, they were overwhelmed with the excitement. Our volunteers and staff were glowing with the same uplifted feeling that the grins on the kids’ faces conveyed.
Thank you to everyone who hosted a drive, donated, helped pack backpacks during our pack-a-thons, or volunteered during our distributions to support these families. You are the heart and soul of a Community United.
Learn more about Mile High United Way’s upcoming community events and how you can get involved.
