The Great Big Backpack Build Event United 36 Teams to Support Local Students and Teachers

While summer often signals rest and relaxation for thousands of students across Central Florida, it also marks the start of A Gift for Teaching’s “Ready for Back-to-School” campaign. This impactful summer campaign is powered by three initiatives designed to prepare local students with the supplies and excitement they need to begin the next school year with success.

The Great Big Backpack Build kicked off the summer with even more backpacks than last year: 25,000 filled with school essentials. These supplies will be delivered to more than 140 Orange County public schools with the highest need and public schools in Osceola County. Assembled in just a few hours at the Orange County Convention Center, this event united 36 corporate teams and more than 500 volunteers to make major local impact, including helping hands from City of Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and Orange County public school teachers on summer break.

“These aren’t just backpacks, they’re a doorway to opportunity,” said Jane Thompson, President of A Gift for Teaching. “Each backpack represents a child who can now walk into their classroom with confidence, knowing they have the tools to learn and create. This community effort not only supports our students but also relives our teachers who go above and beyond for their students every year.”

More than 70% of public schools in Central Florida are in high need, with many of these students at risk of starting the next school year empty-handed. From July 1 through August 22, local companies and groups are encouraged to register a Supply Drive for Success with A Gift for Teaching to help restock its Free Teacher Supply Store with the top 5 essentials: loose-leaf paper, #2 pencils, spiral or composition notebooks, dry erase markers, and copy paper.

In August, a limited time giving opportunity will be announced to further the impact of all financial gifts received. Generous matching funders will double donations and transform every $1 received into $20 worth of supplies for local teachers and students. The Back-to-School Telethon will broadcast the last day of giving live on WKMG News 6.

With strong support from the community as well as partners like Universal Orlando Foundation, Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation, Duke Energy, The Joe & Sarah Galloway Foundation, and many more, A Gift for Teaching aims to change the back-to-school narrative and equip even more Central Florida classrooms for another successful year. Join today at AGiftForTeaching.org/backtoschool to participate in these vital initiatives and help more students feel excited and prepared to learn from the first day of school.

For media opportunities and photos/videos, please contact Denise Naranjo, Director of Marketing.