Welcome to the latest edition of Back 2 School America’s Monthly Newsletter! Each month, we’re thrilled to bring you a collection of stories, updates, and resources designed to inspire, inform, and involve our community of supporters, educators, and families. Here you will also find our Volunteer and Sponsorship opportunities.
In This Edition…
- New Executive Director
- Deloitte Did It
- Supporting LGBTQ
- Chicagoland Build-A-Kit & Distribution: (August 2)
Welcome Our New Executive Director, Bernadette!
Back 2 School America announces the appointment of Bernadette Shanahan-Haas as its new Executive Director. Shanahan-Haas brings over 25 years of leadership, strategy, and outcomes-driven success in the nonprofit sector to our Chicago-based organization. As part of a broader strategic transition, current CEO Matthew Kurtzman steps into a pivotal new role as Founder and Development Director.
“Passing the baton to Bernadette marks a significant milestone for our organization and for me personally. I’ve been at the helm for over 15 years, and now is the perfect time to bring someone on board who will build upon our success and guide us through our next promising chapter.“
Matthew Kurtzman, Founder & Director of Development
Back 2 School America is one of the fastest-growing nonprofits focused on providing school supplies and other essential tools to children in need. It has distributed 375,000 school supply kits containing over 11 million supplies since its founding by Kurtzman.
Bernadette joins Back 2 School America as we embark on an ambitious national growth strategy. Recognized by the Business Ledger as one of the “Influential Women in Business,” her most recent tenure as the Executive Director of the Retail Bakers of America, where she transformed the organization, ensuring its sustainability by establishing it as an essential leader within the industry.
“I am honored to join Back 2 School America at this critical juncture. The mission of providing essential school supplies to children in need is more important than ever, and I’m committed to expanding our reach, enhancing our programs, and forging new partnerships. Together, we will build on the solid foundation laid by Matthew, ensuring that every child, family, and teacher has the tools they need for success!“
Bernadette Shanahan-Haas, Executive Director
Deloitte Did It
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Deloitte for their incredible support at our recent Build-A-Kit event. With their help, we packed and distributed 1,300 school supply kits! Deloitte’s commitment to community service is truly inspiring, and we are grateful for their partnership. Check out some highlights from the event and see the impact we made together.
Event Highlights
- 1,300 school supply kits packed
- 350 employees united for a single, impactful purpose
- Engaging in team-building activities such as Notes of Inspiration
Supporting LGBTQ
As we reflect on the impact of June being Pride Month and our ongoing commitment to inclusivity, Back 2 School America is actively preparing for our signature LGBTQ event this October, during LGBTQ History Month. As we all celebrate Pride this month, we’re inviting your company to join us as a sponsor for our Proud 2 Build-A-Kit event on October 18th. Becoming a sponsor in June and coming together as a community in October is a way to ensure your impact is magnified.
This special event will not only highlight the rich history and contributions of the LGBTQ community but also provide vital resources and support to ensure students feel empowered and ready for the academic year ahead. By partnering with us, your company will play a crucial role in fostering an environment where every student is celebrated for who they are, promoting a culture of acceptance and diversity.
Chicagoland Build-A-Kit & Distribution
It’s our largest event of the year, and we need volunteers!
Save the date for Friday, August 2nd.
We’re hosting a major volunteer day dedicated to packing and distributing school supply kits. This is a fantastic opportunity to give back to the community and ensure students are prepared for the new school year.
Sign up now by clicking here to be part of this impactful day.
