The Akron Zoo, in partnership with Akron Public Schools (APS), welcomed more than 5,000 guests on Aug. 16-17 for its Backpack Adventure event. During the event, more than 2,000 backpacks full of school supplies were passed out to APS students, grades kindergarten through fifth grade.
The event expanded this year to help connect families to various services offered in the community, along with school supplies. APS, along with Akron Parent Teacher Association (PTA), connected parents with school information and volunteer options. Entertainment was provided by students from the Firestone Vocal Jazz Ensemble and East High School Marching Band.
Akron Children’s Hospital provided wellness checks and immunizations. Minority Behavioral Health Group and Child Guidance & Family Solutions offered mental health resources.
Other community organizations involved included, Akron Children’s Museum, Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank, Akron Fire Department, Akron Police Department, Akron-Summit County Public Library, ArtSparks, Cleveland Browns Foundation, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, GASP, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, Summit County Developmental Disabilities Board and Summit County Sheriff’s Office.
Backpack Adventure was made possible thanks to the support of organizations, such as Dominion Energy, Andrea Rose Teodosio Foundation, Amazon, Giant Eagle, GOJO, GPD Group, METRO RTA, Towpath Credit Union, Christ Child Society, KeyBank and Stutler Leasing.