Boys & Girls Club seeks sponsors for seventh annual Back to School Bash

The Boys & Girls Club of Vernon is seeking sponsors and community partners for its seventh annual Back to School Bash, scheduled for 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5.

This year’s event, promoted as the “Future Ready Fest” and featuring Google Community Day, will be held at the Boys & Girls Club of Vernon. Admission and activities will be free.

Families will have access to school supplies, backpacks, back-to-school clothing, haircuts and other services intended to help children prepare for the new school year. Organizers also plan to offer free food and activities.

Health-related services are expected to include school physicals, immunizations and health, vision and dental screenings. Families also will be able to meet representatives from local organizations and learn about community programs and other available resources.

Participating organizations may provide information about memberships, classes, volunteer opportunities, civic groups, churches, job openings and other services available in the Vernon and Wilbarger County area.

The Back to School Bash has grown substantially since it began six years ago. Organizers said about 600 families attended last year, taking advantage of services offered by local businesses, churches, nonprofit groups and public agencies.

During the event’s first two years, organizers were able to provide school supplies to every child in Wilbarger County. During the following four years, supplies were provided to children who needed assistance. The club hopes to continue meeting that need this year.

Additional sponsors are being sought to support the school supply giveaway and help remove financial barriers for families. Google is sponsoring backpacks for the event.

Other sponsors include Hospice of Wichita Falls, Main Street Vernon, Dusty and Susie Johnston, New Hope Baptist Church, First Baptist Church of Vernon, Herc Rentals, Quantum Rise and T.W. Frierson Contractor Inc.

Businesses, churches, agencies and civic organizations may also participate by setting up at the event and sharing information about their programs and services.

Those interested in sponsoring the event or becoming a participating organization may contact Sarah Hernandez at shernandez@vernonbgc.org.