Give Kids What They Need To Succeed!
Backpack and school supply giveaways are great opportunities to make a positive difference in your community and in the lives of children. Use this guide to help plan and implement a successful backpack and school supply giveaway.
1. Partner with local businesses & organizations
- Coordinate with a local school or learning center to determine the needs of students.
- Partner with businesses and organizations for donations and services. Barbershops and salons may be interested in offering discounted haircuts. Children’s museums could offer free admission and local eateries might donate food for the event.
2. Decide on a time & location
- Consider the day and time, concentrating on when is most convenient for your target audience. Allow for a few hours before and after for setup and takedown.
- Check local school districts’ schedules as well as community and religious calendars to avoid conflicts.
- Determine whether your event will be inside or outside. If outside, think about investing in a large tent if the weather is bad, or schedule a rain date.
- Take into consideration accessibility for those with disabilities, parking, restrooms, a power source, and room for any features your event will have, including music, snacks, drinks, booths for community partners, etc.
3. Get supplies ready
- Order backpack and school supply kits from Positive Promotions.
- Acquire equipment and other supplies (e.g., tables, chairs, tents).
- Buy refreshments for volunteers and attendees.
- Secure entertainment or other services (face painting, music, etc.) that you want to offer.
4. Publicize the event
- Take out ads in local newspapers and/or on local radio stations.
- Distribute fliers in your community. Hang them in lobbies or near entrances of local businesses and organizations. Don’t forget to put them up in your local library, too!
- Post about the event on social media. Tag businesses or organizations that are supporting the event so they can post about it on their social media platforms, too.
5. Have a great event!
Know that you’re making a positive difference in your community! Take note of your successes and also things that can be improved upon next year.
BACKPACK EVENT TIP!
Don’t forget your volunteers! Order matching shirts for them to wear at the event and be sure to give them a token of appreciation for helping out.
