The Pilot Mountain community is buzzing with anticipation for an extraordinary event that has rapidly grown from a simple concept into a monumental collaborative effort: the Better Together BackToSchool Bash. Far exceeding initial expectations, organizers affirm that the logistical undertaking for this grand initiative rivals the meticulous planning typically reserved for the renowned Mayfest, underscoring its significant scale and impact on the region.
What began as a modest vision for a school supply drive and giveaway has blossomed into a comprehensive community event designed to uplift and equip students for academic success. This remarkable transformation highlights the profound dedication of local businesses, civic organizations, and volunteers who have united under a shared goal of fostering educational opportunities for every child in Surry County.
Set to unfold on Saturday, August 9th, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Armfield Civic Center grounds in Pilot Mountain will be transformed into a vibrant hub of activity. This central location ensures accessibility for families from across the county, providing a convenient and welcoming environment for all attendees seeking vital school supplies and engaging community resources.
A cornerstone of the BackToSchool Bash is the incredible generosity of over 20 local businesses, each committed to staffing booths and distributing free school supplies. In a truly impressive display of collective effort, the civic club has procured 1,000 hot dogs to ensure attendees are well-fed, while each participating business booth will contribute 500 units of a specific item, guaranteeing a vast array of materials for students.
Ensuring an organized and equitable distribution, children entering the event area will receive color-coded wristbands based on their age group. This innovative system, as explained by Nancy Carter, treasurer of the Pilot Mountain Civic Club, is designed to ensure that regardless of whether a child has their supply list—or if it’s gone missing—volunteers can efficiently guide them to age-appropriate school supplies necessary for a successful start to their academic year. Additionally, every child will receive a free backpack upon checking in at the civic club booth.
Beyond just school supplies, the Better Together BackToSchool Bash is poised to be a holistic community event, integrating crucial human service providers and advocacy groups. Organizations like Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) will be present, alongside local law enforcement, fire, and rescue personnel, providing valuable information and fostering community safety awareness.
Interactive educational demonstrations are also a key feature, with the Mount Airy Fire Department planning to bring their popular “smoke house” for engaging safety lessons. Furthermore, EMS will conduct essential car seat safety checks, offering parents peace of mind and ensuring the well-being of the youngest members of the Pilot Mountain community. This multifaceted approach underscores the event’s commitment to broader youth support.
In a powerful testament to its inclusive mission, the BackToSchool Bash is open to all students within the Surry County education district, without any income-level restrictions. The organizers emphasize a first-come, first-served basis for supply distribution, ensuring fairness and broad access to these vital resources for every family in need.
This ambitious endeavor epitomizes the strength of community outreach and collective responsibility. By bringing together diverse elements—from free school supplies to vital safety education—the Better Together Back-to-School Bash is not merely an event; it is a profound investment in the future of Surry County’s children, strengthening the fabric of the community one backpack and one lesson at a time.
