4th Annual Back-to-School Event a resounding success

ON August 18, families from across the Lower Mainland gathered at Riverside Palace Banquet Hall for the 4th Annual Back-to-School Event, a community-driven initiative dedicated to helping children start the school year with confidence and the tools they need to succeed.

This year, 60 children and their families received backpacks filled with essential school supplies, thanks to the generosity of Henry Schein Cares Foundation (BC Division) and a growing network of community partners committed to supporting local youth.

Prashant Ohri, President, Henry Schein Americas, reflected on the impact of the initiative: “Seeing the positive impact of last year’s event inspired us to continue giving back and helping students start the school year with confidence. This year, we were proud to provide 60 backpacks filled with essential school supplies to children and families in need. Through the Henry Schein Cares Foundation, our commitment to social responsibility continues to strengthen communities and create opportunities for young people to succeed.”

Guests were welcomed into a vibrant atmosphere featuring games, activities, prizes, and information booths hosted by community partners. Children enjoyed meeting members of the BC Lions, Richmond RCMP, Spike from Vancouver Whitecaps FC and other organizations while learning about community programs and services available to families.

Riverside Palace Banquet Hall donated the venue, staff, décor, and dinner for all attendees. “We were proud to help create a meaningful and memorable experience for children. As the new school year begins, it was important to us that these young students feel supported, encouraged, and confident. Children are our future, and this back-to-school outreach is a powerful way to invest in their success, well-being, and brighter tomorrow,” said Bobby Ghirra, General Manager, Riverside Banquet Halls.

The event was coordinated by Harvey Kooner, who brought together community organizations, businesses, and volunteers with a shared goal of supporting local families: “Over the past four years, this initiative has supported more than 270 children. Thanks to the dedication of returning and new partners, we were able to expand our impact this year and support families connected to KidsPlay Foundation, Richmond schools, Richmond Food Bank, and KidSport BC. Together, we are creating opportunities, strengthening communities, and making a difference.”

The event also brought together an exceptional group of partners, including Islamic Relief Canada, BC Lions, Richmond Raiders, Richmond RCMP, Richmond Sunrise Rotary, DuMonde Helping Hands Foundation, Vancouver Whitecaps FC, Collingwood Community Policing Centre, SEMO Foundation, Kind Kits, and the Victor Ghirra Toy Drive.

Micheal Ghirra, President of the Richmond Sunrise Rotary Club, shared: “At the Richmond Sunrise Rotary Club, our motto is ‘Service Above Self,’ and we are proud to live that commitment through meaningful community initiatives. The Back-to-School event was a wonderful example of what can happen when the community comes together to support families in a fun, welcoming, and interactive way. We are honoured to help children begin the school year feeling confident, encouraged, and ready to pursue their goals.”

Following dinner, attendees were inspired by motivational speaker Sachin Latti, who shared his journey of running across Canada to raise awareness for mental health. Remarks were also provided by Richmond School Trustee Debbie Tablotney, Councillor Bill McNulty, and Parm Bains, MP for Steveston–East Richmond, who recognized the collective efforts of the many organizations and volunteers that made the event possible.

Several community partners also contributed school supplies and support. Islamic Relief Canada provided sling bags, water bottles, bookmarks, and other school essentials for participating children. “It was an honour to join our community partners in supporting local children and families as they prepare for the school year ahead. This initiative demonstrates the impact that can be achieved when organizations come together with a shared commitment to uplifting others and creating lasting positive change,” said Fatimah Qureshi, Regional Manager, BC, and Tahir Sattar, Philanthropy and Partnerships, BC, Islamic Relief Canada.

KidsPlay Foundation Founder and CEO Kal Dosanjh highlighted the importance of investing in youth: “This event showcased the power of community coming together to support children and families. By providing students with the tools they need to succeed, we are investing in brighter futures. The smiles on the children’s faces were a powerful reminder of the difference we can make when we work together.”

The event also benefited from the support of DuMonde Helping Hands Foundation, which serves families across the Lower Mainland through grocery and community assistance programs. “Strong communities are built through compassion and service. Supporting initiatives like this creates opportunities for children and families while fostering hope and belonging,” said Prince Ola, Founder, DuMonde Helping Hands Foundation.
If you would like to make a difference and help with future community outreach events, contact Harvey Kooner at 604-671-4180 or harveykooner1@gmail.com