Community in Action: Waterbury Youth Services’ Back to School Rally A Success!
Waterbury, CT – It was a day filled with joy, community spirit, and backpacks brimming with supplies! Waterbury Youth Services (WYS) hosted its 27th Annual Back to School Rally, a beloved tradition that this year helped over 1,200 families prepare for the new academic year with a spectacular flourish.
The sun shone brightly over Fulton Park, setting the stage for a festive day that felt more like a community celebration than a routine school prep event. From the moment families arrived, they were swept up in a wave of enthusiasm from volunteers ready to distribute not just school supplies but also smiles and support.
"Seeing the community come together like this is truly inspiring," said Olivia Dudley Director of Program Operations at Waterbury Youth Services. "It's about more than just giving out notebooks and pencils. It's about empowering our students and letting them know their community believes in them."
The rally was a vibrant tapestry of activities and services, all aimed at ensuring that students are equipped not only with school essentials but also with confidence as they head back to school. The grounds buzzed with energy as children darted from one station to another—picking up books, selecting backpacks, painting the community mural, and enjoying the live entertainment.
Interim Superintendent Darren Schwartz and Mayor Paul K. Pernerewski, Jr. were also in attendance, reinforcing the strong ties between educational institutions and civic leadership in championing community initiatives.
Olivia Dudley, Director of Program Operations at WYS and the event’s Chairperson, reflected on the day, saying, "Every year, I am amazed at how many people are eager to contribute. It's a powerful reminder of how much good we can do when we join forces."
As the event wound down, the sense of accomplishment was visible on the faces of everyone involved—volunteers, parents, and especially the kids, whose excited chatter about the upcoming school year filled the air.
We express our deepest gratitude to our invaluable sponsors and partners: In alphabetical order, City of Waterbury, Comcast, Connecticut Community Foundation, Connecticut Department of Corrections, Frankie’s, HNTB, Savings Bank of Danbury, The Home Depot, Thomaston Savings Bank, Waterbury Dept. of Education, Waterbury Hospital, and WATR for making this event a resonating success!
Now, as the community moves forward, the spirit of the rally can still be felt. We invite everyone to relive the memories and enjoy the photos of this wonderful day. Check out the vibrant captures from the event below, and see how Waterbury Youth Services is making a difference, one smiling student at a time.
For any further inquiries or details, please contact Olivia Dudley at Waterbury Youth Services (203)573-0264.
A 501(c)3 non-profit organization, Waterbury Youth Services consistently serves over 1,000 youth and their families every year. Offering a diverse range of 14 programs, WYS continues to lead in areas such as Juvenile Justice, Mentoring, Truancy Prevention, support for Youth Experiencing Homelessness, Youth & Family Emergency Services, After-School Programs, and the Child Advocacy Center.
Waterbury Youth Services is a haven for youth, where they are celebrated, understood, and empowered. Offering myriad opportunities, WYS ensures that every young individual is geared to explore their potential and achieve their dreams. Whenever guidance is sought, Waterbury Youth Services stands ready.
Waterbury Youth Services is a sanctuary for young people, a place where they are celebrated, understood, and empowered to thrive. With a wide array of opportunities at their fingertips, WYS ensures that every young person has the tools to unlock their potential and chase their dreams. Whenever guidance is needed, Waterbury Youth Services is always there, ready to support.
