BACK-TO-SCHOOL BASH •August 5, 2026

Because of You, 255 Students are Starting the School Year with Confidence

For most children, back-to-school season means new teachers, fresh notebooks, and excitement for what lies ahead. For families facing childhood cancer, it often brings added stress, financial pressure, and uncertainty.

On August 5, our families gathered for an evening filled with backpacks, school supplies, haircuts, laughter, games, and meaningful connection. Every backpack packed, every volunteer hour, every donated item, and every gift reminded our families that they are not facing this journey alone.

Thanks to our incredible community, 255 students from 90 NC4K families began the school year with the supplies, encouragement, and support they needed to focus on being kids—not cancer.

More Than School Supplies

Every NC4K Hero and their siblings received:

  • A new backpack they got to pick out for themselves

  • Gift cards for additional back-to-school shopping

  • Bombas socks, Philips toothbrushes, Headbands of Hope, and Ayeya soaps

  • Stronger Together t-shirts from Northwestern Mutual

  • Aflac My Special Aflac Duck®

  • Back-to-school haircuts

  • Dinner and family activities

  • Time to connect with other families who understand the childhood cancer journey

A Parent’s Perspective

Your generosity helped NC4K families begin the school year feeling prepared, supported, and surrounded by a community that cares.

Thank You To Our Presenting Partner

Thank You To Our Program Sponsors

By The Numbers

Thank you for caring about our family as a whole. Even after our little Amelia’Rose has journeyed to heaven, you did not forget about us or cast us aside. You have supported us even in aftercare. We really do appreciate your love and consideration and help!

  • 90 families attended the event.

  • 35 families in attendance have a child actively receiving cancer treatment.

  • $15,180 in donated school supplies.

  • 8 community drives hosted by partners.

  • 40 volunteers served 175 hours.

  • 8 nonprofit partners collaborated.

  • 3 ride-on vehicles were delivered through the Wheels for Aiden program.