If you’ve been around the Ridge long enough, you know we do back to school a little differently here. We’re not just about shopping lists and shoe sales—we’re about coming together as a community to make sure every kid heads into the school year feeling confident, prepared, and cared for. And this year, we’re doing it again in a big way!

Mark your calendars for Thursday, August 14 from 5:30–7:30 PM at the North San Juan Community Center, because the 2nd Annual Back to School Night is happening—and you do not want to miss it.

This event is a collaborative effort between the San Juan Ridge Community Coalition, 16 amazing service providers, and the North San Juan Community Center, all teaming up to make the start of the school year a little brighter for local families.

Here’s what’s in store:
Free backpacks: filled to the brim with school supplies for all school-age children—yes, free.
Tasty bites for all: We’re firing up the grill with hot dogs and hamburgers, plus other treats to keep everyone smiling.
Resources galore: Shop the Community Center Free Store for clothes and other essentials, and connect with an incredible lineup of local service providers, including:

Whether you’ve got a kindergartener nervous about their first day or a teen who swears they’ve “got it covered” (spoiler: they don’t), this is your one-stop shop for a fun, supportive, and helpful back-to-school kickoff. Plus, it’s a chance to see familiar faces, meet new friends, and remember why this community is so special.