GarzaEMC, in collaboration with Central National Bank (CNB) and the Salvation Army, organized a back-to-school event to mark the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year. The event aimed to engage students and families through various activities while emphasizing community involvement.
The event featured multiple booths offering activities such as arts and crafts, face painting, and Polaroid picture-taking. Sarah Johnson, a volunteer from GarzaEMC, commented on her experience at the arts and crafts booth: “Volunteering at the arts and craft table was so sweet. It truly allowed the chance to talk to the families and the kids.”
Face painting was particularly popular among attendees. Madeleine Maltais shared an interaction she had while volunteering: “The coolest part of the event was when I finished painting batman on a little boy’s face, and he BECAME THE BATMAN in front of me.” Another volunteer, Toni Parkman, noted how meaningful it was to connect with both children and parents during face painting sessions.
A dunk tank provided entertainment as students attempted to dunk Austin Area Commander Major Lewis Reckline. Marissa Garza described her time near the dunk booth: “[She] loved seeing how he and the kids interacted. He was constantly joking with them and making it a really fun experience!”
Participants also enjoyed foot races, potato sack races, train rides around the venue, and snow cones. Justin Rusthoven reflected on his participation in races: “The event was a blast…even if I did come in last in every race.”
Each child left with new Adidas shoes thanks to CNB’s partnership with GarzaEMC. Rudy Garza, President of GarzaEMC, expressed gratitude for being part of this initiative: “We feel incredibly blessed to be part of this community… Our team is passionate about making a difference.”
Those interested in volunteering with the Salvation Army can find opportunities on their website.
