On August 9, 2025, our community came together for the Back to School Drive — a day filled with generosity, fun, and connection. Hosted in partnership with The Mail Center Kansas City, the event provided backpacks, school supplies, and encouragement to foster youth, while also showing support for breast cancer survivors and foster families. Thanks to our partners, food was also provided to those in need, ensuring the day nourished both hearts and homes.
The event was brought to life by powerful words from Merrell R. Bennekin, Reggie King, and Dr. Yvette Richards of Cornerstones of Care, whose messages of hope, empowerment, and resilience resonated with everyone in attendance.
We are deeply grateful to the Bolton Family, KVC Missouri, Mayor Quinton Lucas, the Kansas City Chiefs Cheerleaders, KC Wolf, DJ Kaution, Shawn Lee Photography, and the Pythons Drill Team — for each adding their own energy, talent, and heart. From high-fives and photo ops to music, dancing, and unforgettable performances, these contributions made the day truly special.
Visitors enjoyed exploring vendors like 31SME, Nature Heals, Gloriously Unique, Va Va Voom, Brain Freeze Daiquiri, Fabulous Faces Face Painting, and the ever-popular gaming truck—plus Bingo and raffle prizes that kept the excitement going all afternoon.
Special thanks to Tami and her team at The Mail Center for their leadership and support in making the event a success. To our generous sponsors NutriPure and Hank & Roy — your contributions helped bring this vision to life. And to Mercy Chefs for their incredible donation of 130 backpacks filled with food — your generosity made a lasting difference for families in our community.
From uplifting speeches and engaging vendor experiences, to family fun for all, the Back to School Drive was a true celebration of community spirit. It was a day of giving, unity, and joy — reminding us of the incredible things we can accomplish when we come together to support one another.
