A Community United for Back-to-School
This past Saturday, Clovis North High Gymnasium became the heart of a community-driven celebration that was nothing short of spectacular. The Troy Center’s Back-to-School backpack giveaway was set to begin at noon, but by 9 AM, families had already started to gather, eager to be part of what was shaping up to be an unforgettable day. The line had been forming well before 9 AM, with some dedicated parents, coaches, and students arriving as early as 5 or 6 AM to ensure their children would receive the supplies they needed.
Early Arrival and Community Interactions
As I arrived early to capture the essence of the event, the heat was already bearing down, but the excitement in the air was undeniable. It wasn’t just about the backpacks—though those were certainly a big draw—it was about the entire experience, which included star-studded basketball games that had the whole community buzzing. The anticipation was palpable, and I knew I was about to witness something special.
Before heading inside, I took the time to interact with those in line. The energy was infectious, with parents chatting and children brimming with excitement. I had a brief interview with the very first person in line, who had shown up at the crack of dawn. Their dedication was inspiring, and their story highlighted the importance of events like these in our community. Capturing their anticipation and gratitude was a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.
Inside the Gym: Preparation and Excitement
Upon entering the gym, I was immediately struck by the meticulous setup. Tables were piled high with colorful backpacks, each one filled with essential school supplies. The gym had been transformed into a vibrant hub of activity, and it was clear that a lot of care had gone into planning every detail. I took a moment to form a game plan, deciding how best to capture the day’s events through my lens. The setup was a testament to the hard work of The Troy Center and the many partners involved.
As the clock struck noon, the doors opened, and the energy inside the gym surged. Families streamed in, and the children’s and student’s faces lit up as they chose their backpacks. But the excitement didn’t end there. Each backpack contained a surprise—a ticket for a chance to win a bicycle, a free haircut, laptops, or even a PlayStation 5. The joy and gratitude were evident on the faces of both the parents and the children, who knew they were walking away with more than just supplies—they were leaving with a sense of readiness and confidence for the upcoming school year.
The Impact of Local Barbers
In between capturing the action, I took a moment to speak with some of the local barbers who were offering free haircuts to the kids. Their enthusiasm was infectious—they were genuinely thrilled to be part of such a positive event, and it showed in the way they interacted with the children and students. It wasn’t just about the haircuts; it was about giving these kids a boost of confidence, something that can make all the difference as they head back to school.
A Community Effort and Special Shoutouts
The day was a perfect example of what can happen when a community comes together with a shared purpose. The Troy Center, under the leadership of Nicholas Butler, had orchestrated a seamless event that touched the lives of countless families. From the meticulous organization to the thoughtful details, it was clear that this was more than just an event—it was a labor of love. The dedication of everyone involved, from the volunteers to the sponsors, was evident in every aspect of the day.
A special shoutout goes to the independent photographers and videographers who documented the day. Each of them played a crucial role in creating visual stories that were shared across their networks, amplifying the reach of the event. Their work is a perfect example of how powerful we can be in creating community awareness. By capturing the moments that mattered most, they helped to spread the word and ensure that the impact of this day would be felt far beyond the walls of the gymnasium.
It’s important to acknowledge all those who played a vital role in making this event successful. Clovis North High School provided the venue, and the Clovis Police Department, along with private security, ensured everything ran smoothly. The Fresno ProAm Basketball League organized the star-studded games, adding an extra layer of excitement to the day. Local businesses also stepped up—Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers provided support and assistance, and American Pistachio Growers contributed healthy snacks. QSE Media live-streamed the event, allowing those who couldn’t attend to be part of the experience.
A Week of Giving Culminates in Clovis
This event was the culmination of a week-long series of giveaways that The Troy Center organized across the Central Valley, reaching schools and parks from Hamilton K-8 to Fink White Park, Inspiration Park, The City Center, and finally, Clovis North High. The commitment to supporting families and children was evident in every aspect of the day.
Reflection and Looking Forward
For me, being part of this event was a reminder of the power of community and the importance of giving back. It was an experience I’ll carry with me, not just as a photographer, but as a member of this community. The memories of this day will stay with me, a testament to the strength and unity that defines Clovis.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where I’ll take you behind the scenes of the Pro-Am basketball season finale—a thrilling end to an already unforgettable day. In Clovis and the surrounding cities, community isn’t just something we talk about; it’s something we live and breathe every day.
In Clovis, we don’t just come together—we make memories that last.
This blog was written and photographed by Terrell Jackson, the founder of both THE FIVE5NINE and Bright.Vision.Media, in collaboration with The Troy Center.
