FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Dr. Joan M. Williams, Council Chief of Staff
Email: jwilliams@akronohio.gov
Phone: 330-375-2258
Akron City Council President Margo Sommerville Selected as
Winner of NFWL 2025 Backpack Program Sponsored by Walmart
Community Invited to “Level Up: Backpacks & Big Goals” Back-to-School Event on September 20th at Helen Arnold Community Learning Center
Akron, Ohio, August 6, 2025 - Akron City Council President Margo Sommerville has been selected as one of the winners of the 2025 National Foundation for Women Legislators (NFWL) Backpack Program, proudly sponsored by Walmart. This national initiative supports student success by equipping communities with backpacks filled with essential school supplies to help children start the academic year strong.
In celebration of this honor, Council President Sommerville will host “Level Up: Backpacks & Big Goals” — an energizing community back-to-school event on September 20th, from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the Helen Arnold Community Learning Center, located at 450 Vernon Odom Boulevard, Akron, OH.
The event will include the distribution of 100 free backpacks; each filled with supplies for students in grades K–8. Children must be present to receive a backpack, and families are encouraged to arrive early, as supplies are limited.
“This is about more than just school supplies — it’s about encouraging every child to dream big, aim high, and walk into the school year with confidence,” said Council President Sommerville. “I’m grateful to the NFWL and Walmart for supporting our youth and allowing us to bring resources directly into our community.”
In addition to the backpack giveaway, the event will offer:
- Fun, family-friendly activities
- Free Food and giveaways
- Live D.J.
- An opportunity to meet and talk with Council President Sommerville
- Community resources and support services
This event is free and open to the public. Local families, educators, and community members are all welcome to attend.
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