CONTRIBUTED — Planning is underway for the 4th annual Elizabethton Back-2-School Bash, and organizers are calling on the community to get involved as sponsors, partners in the resource fair, and volunteers.

“We’re thrilled to have had so much support over the last few years and excited to now be planning an even bigger and better bash,” said Bekah Price, public relations coordinator with Elizabethton City Schools. “We are looking at diversifying the backpacks we offer, improving traffic flow, and expanding the resource fair this year. It’s a great way to get involved and directly support local students, so we encourage everyone to consider how their business or place of worship can be involved.”

Backpacks average $16 and include age-appropriate school supplies. Event planners have set the goal at 1,000 backpacks this year and have various sponsorship and recognition levels available.

Gold sponsors (62+ backpacks / $1000+) receive recognition on billboard, banner at event gate (provide your own 4’ X 8’ or smaller banner), news releases, promotional materials at event, ECS website and social media.

Silver sponsors (40+ backpacks / $640+) receive recognition on news releases, promotional materials at event, ECS website and social media.

Bronze sponsors (<20 backpacks / <$320) receive recognition on promotional materials at event, ECS website and social media.

This free event will take place on Saturday, Aug. 3, from 9-11 a.m. at the Citizens Bank Stadium at Elizabethton High School. In addition to backpacks, the event includes obstacle courses, inflatables, lunch, giveaway items, and a family resource fair.

The resource fair is open to businesses, non-profits, and municipal organizations which provide resources that sustain families throughout the year. Those interested may apply online here, and there is no cost to participate.

“The resource fair is one of the most important elements of this event,” said Price. “Not only do families get to learn about all kinds of health and education resources available, but they get to meet dozens of people that have come out to support them and their children. Our goal with this event is for students to return confidently to school, but also for families to know that this community is behind them 100 percent.”

This event wouldn’t be possible without the support of dozens of volunteers. Time slots and available positions for interested volunteers will be posted closer to the event.

Those interested in sponsoring the event, applying for a space in the resource fair, or volunteering should call 423-547-8000, email bekah.price@ecschools.net. Please help spread the word by liking and sharing the Facebook event Elizabethton Back-2-School Bash 2019. For more information, visit the Back-2-School Bash web page.

The event is planned by Elizabethton City Schools, Carter County Health Department, Elizabethton Police Department, and United Way.