For the last five academic years, Serve Your City/Ward 6 Mutual Aid (SYC/W6MA) has partnered with over 50 community organizations to support more than 5,000 students from over 1,200 families through the Annual #WeKeepUsSafe Back to School Bash & Youth Festival.
Each year, students and their families join us to celebrate the start of the school year with musical performances by students (and teachers) from our Free School for Unlimited Youth Program, lively dance competitions, activity booths hosted by community partners, and complimentary food and drinks provided by Black-led businesses—and so much more! Of course, students also receive brand-new backpacks filled with essential supplies and resources, including digital devices, books, and classroom materials to help them feel prepared for the year ahead.
Thanks to your unwavering support, the #WeKeepUsSafe Back to School Bash & Youth Festival has grown and expanded each year. As we prepare for our sixth event in 2025, we’re excited to continue evolving to meet the needs of our community. Whether you’ve been with us from the beginning or are joining us for the first time, stay tuned for details on how you can get involved in this impactful event. Together, let's continue to support our students and ensure they have the tools and encouragement needed for a successful school year!
What is the Back to School Bash?
Join us for the #WeKeepUsSafe Back to School Bash & Youth Festival, a day of celebration marking the start of the new school year! Hosted by SYC/W6MA, this event brings together community partners and community members to provide students and families with brand-new backpacks filled with school supplies and digital devices. Attendees can also sign up for tutoring and enrichment programs, receive assistance with paperwork and required school immunizations, and more!
Our Impact
Since 2020, SYC/W6MA has supported over 5,000 DC students and 1,200 families through the #WeKeepUsSafe Back to School Bash. Last year, over 94% of backpack recipients lived in households earning less than $50k per year, with over 95% of backpack recipients being Black or Hispanic students. The B2SB Initiative also supports our other year-long educational programs, such as our Digital Liberations Program and our Free School for Unlimited Youth Program, which provide resources and support to students throughout the school year. This year, we hope to raise $250,000 to continue growing and expanding all these incredible programs. It’s an ambitious goal, but we can do it with YOUR help.
Here’s how you can support DC students:
