Big 'Back-To-School Bash' Planned In West Hartford

WEST HARTFORD, CT — The first day of school in West Hartford is Wednesday, Aug. 27, but before that day, there's one more chance for summer fun and the chance to stock up on school supplies.

West Hartford teens, families, and educators are invited to Blue Back Square, 65 Memorial Road, West Hartford, on Saturday, Aug. 23, from 4 to 7 p.m. for the "Elevate WeHa Back to School Bash."

The day promises to be an afternoon of art, entertainment, and community celebration, and it will also feature the Concerned Parents of Color Greater Hartford Backpack Giveaway.

"This free, family-friendly, and substance-free event blends youth creativity, wellness resources, and essential back-to-school support, providing 300 free backpacks filled with school supplies to West Hartford families on a first-come, first-served basis," reads an event announcement.

Among the event highlights are:

• Backpack Giveaway: 300 backpacks with essential supplies for local students.
• Live music and DJ performances featuring local teen talent and community favorites.
• Mural dedication.
• Arts and craft station: Customize a shirt or tote bag with youth-designed artwork.
• Face painting.
• Youth-led art projects: Collaborative stations for all ages.
• Wellness and prevention booths: Safety, community preparedness, health and mental health, recovery, and family resource information
• Snacks, vendors, and more.

This year’s celebration is a collaborative effort between:

• Elevate WeHa – A RiseUP-led youth wellness and creative leadership initiative
• West Hartford Prevention Partnership – Promoting healthy youth development
• Youth Recovery CT– Elevating teen voices in substance-use prevention
• Concerned Parents of Color Greater Hartford (CPCGH) – Providing resources, advocacy, and support to families of color across the region

“This event is about showing our youth that their creativity, voices, and futures matter,” said Matt Conway, executive director of The RiseUP Group. “We’re thrilled to partner with CPCGH to make sure students are not only equipped for school but empowered to lead.”

Especially invited to attend are teens, parents/caregivers, educators, community members and neighbors.

“Everyone is welcome to attend this open, inclusive, and joy-filled substance-free experience—whether you come to volunteer, collect supplies, paint a mural, or simply celebrate," said Gretchen Levitz, prevention coordinator for the Town of West Hartford.

Elevate WeHa is a youth-powered initiative created by RiseUP and the West Hartford Prevention Partnership, in collaboration with Youth Recovery CT, town agencies, and West Hartford Public Schools. The program designs inclusive, arts-based, substance-free experiences that center youth leadership, mental wellness, and creative expression.

For more information on the 'Back-to-School Bash,' click on this link.