Renita Strange, a Spring 2024 graduate of Danville Community College (DCC) who earned an Associate’s degree in Applied Science in Early Childhood Care & Education, spearheaded a successful inaugural backpack giveaway to support local students in need.
The Backpack Giveaway, Renita’s brainchild, aimed to empower the next generation by providing essential school supplies to students in the Cascade, Axton, Danville, VA and Eden, NC communities. With the help of the backpack giveaway, students will be able to focus on their education without lacking necessary supplies.
Renita’s journey as the event coordinator began with a simple act of planning and purchasing school supplies. Seeking broader support, she reached out to the Strange Family Association (SFA, LLC), which enthusiastically matched her initial contribution of 50 backpacks, bringing the total to 100 backpacks. The collective effort ensured a wider reach and impact, supporting students and their families.
Renita collaborated with her family to form a committee responsible for purchasing supplies, organizing the backpacks by grade level, and planning interactive activities. Each backpack, filled with essentials like notebook paper, pencils, crayons, markers, and more, was tailored to meet the specific needs of elementary, middle, and high school students. The event also provided food, drinks, and a sprinkler station to help children cool off and enjoy the day.
The Cascade Volunteer Fire Department added to the excitement, allowing children to explore a fire truck and ambulance, educating them on fire safety, and engaging them in activities like spraying water to put out pretend fires.
Renita expressed her gratitude for the support from SFA, LLC, and the Cascade Volunteer Fire Department. "I am grateful for my family’s willingness to partner with me in making a significant positive impact on the lives of children and their families in our community," she said. "The joy and excitement in the children’s eyes made all our efforts worthwhile."
Reflecting on her time at DCC, Renita acknowledged the impact of her education on her community awareness. "My experience at DCC provided me with the techniques necessary for success in the real world," she said. She credited Professor Traci Daniel for her encouragement and support, which were instrumental in Renita’s academic and personal growth. "Without DCC and Ms. Traci, I might still be working in a factory. My learning experience at DCC was invaluable."
Renita’s dedication and the success of the backpack giveaway highlight the positive influence that DCC graduates can have on their communities. This event marks the beginning of what Renita hopes will be an annual tradition of giving back and supporting local students.
For more information about Early Childhood Education at Danville Community College, visit danville.edu.
Those interested in supporting the 2025 Backpack Giveaway should call 434-425-6166 or email strangefreebackpackgiveaway@gmail.com.
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