Back to School Bash
WHO WE ARE
The Back To School Bash is co-chaired by Tyler Barnett and three Scott County School Resource Coordinators (RCs): April Ball, Rebecca McDonald, and Sidney Anderson. The ministry relies heavily on volunteer support and backpack sponsorships from First United Methodist Church (FUMC) and other local Scott County churches.
WHAT THE MINISTRY DOES
The ministry partners with school resource coordinators to identify and serve children in need (Preschool through Grade 6).
The Event: Held annually on the first Saturday morning in August from 9:00 AM to Noon, serving between 250 and 400 children each year (277 children are rostered for the upcoming Bash).
What Children Receive: Every registered child gets a new backpack, properly fitted shoes, 5–6 pairs of socks, and an optional dental exam. Families are also treated to hot dogs, chips, and refreshments.
The Experience: Families gather in the sanctuary for an uplifting message before receiving their items. They also gain access to community resources addressing food, housing, education, and public benefits.
Dental Care: Free dental exams are provided by Dr. Lauren Little of KidsDentistry. For the roughly 90% of examined children who require follow-up care, Dr. Little provides those services completely free of charge at her private office.
MEETINGS & LOCATIONS
| Meeting / Event | Timing | Location |
| Planning Meeting 1 | March | Garth Elementary (Rebecca McDonald’s office) |
| Planning Meeting 2 | April | Garth Elementary (Rebecca McDonald’s office) |
| Planning Meeting 3 | May | FUMC, Room 105 |
| Planning Meeting 4 | July | FUMC, Room 105 |
| The Back To School Bash | 1st Saturday in August (9 AM–100 PM) | FUMC (Sanctuary & designated areas) |
PURPOSE & MOTIVATION
- Personal Connection: For the co-chair, Tyler Barnett, this ministry is deeply personal, rooted in childhood memories of having only one pair of shoes a year. This drives a profound empathy for the kids being served.
- Honoring a Legacy: The leadership role was assumed several years ago from Donna Rennecker, during her battle with cancer, keeping her dedication and the ministry's mission alive.
- A Shared Privilege: The team and the school Resource Coordinators view it as a deep privilege to host this essential outreach at FUMC.
SPIRITUAL FOUNDATION
- Mark 9:36-37: "The belief that welcoming a child in Jesus' name is equivalent to welcoming Him."
- Matthew 18:10: "A reminder never to look down on or disregard "little ones," whose angels are always in the presence of God."