Chicago’s South Side is preparing for a vibrant back-to-school celebration as a University of Illinois Chicago student transforms a solo backpack drive into a full-scale community bash. This coming Saturday, families will gather for free school supplies, haircuts, job resources, and youth activities—an event marking the expansion of youth leader Jaqueza Thomas’s nonprofit, Chicago Emerging Stars.
Key Takeaways
- Over 1,000 backpacks and supplies will be distributed—first-come, first-served
- Free haircuts, hygiene kits, and family activities such as bounce houses and rock climbing
- Job and wellness fair for ages 16-24, including on-site interviews
- The event is organized and led by local UIC student Jaqueza Thomas
- Plans announced for mentorship programs in Chicago Public Schools
A Grassroots Start Blossoms Into a Community Event
Just a few years ago, Jaqueza Thomas began distributing backpacks with his own savings, aiming to support his neighborhood’s students at the start of each school year. Today, with the formal creation of Chicago Emerging Stars—a registered nonprofit as of this summer—his vision has evolved into an expansive initiative providing resources beyond school supplies.
The event, scheduled for Saturday from 2-6 p.m. at Nat King Cole Park in Chatham, offers an array of free services. Families will find food, bounce houses, a zipline, rock climbing, and more—turning the park into both a resource hub and a space for celebration. Priority is given to inclusivity, with all items and services distributed while supplies last, and children present required to receive a backpack.
A New Focus: Career and Wellness Support For Youth
New this year, the event introduces a work and wellness fair aimed at older youth and young adults. Local employers like Walgreens and Advocate Health will conduct on-site job interviews and career prep, including resume coaching. Attendees can also access mental health resources, wellness workshops, and support for connecting to social services—a holistic approach to community empowerment.
From Mentorship To Leadership Development
Inspired by his own experiences with meaningful mentorship during his upbringing in Woodlawn and Greater Grand Crossing, Thomas is building a broader system of peer support among Chicago’s youth. His commitment is reflected not only in the annual back-to-school events but also in his work to launch ongoing monthly mentorship programs in local schools starting this academic year.
Thomas aims to put young people in leadership roles within Chicago Emerging Stars itself, outlining plans for a youth advisory board with direct influence over the organization’s future priorities. The ultimate goal: a youth-driven community center focused on readiness for careers, education, and leadership—empowering the next generation to shape their city.
Looking Ahead: Building Generational Change
With community sponsors backing the event and city leaders invited to join, the back-to-school bash serves as both a celebration of growth and a vision for lasting change. Thomas envisions this effort as a movement by and for young people, ensuring they have safe, enriching spaces and ample opportunities.
As Thomas puts it: investing in the youth of today lays the foundation for positive transformation across Chicago’s neighborhoods, one backpack—and one act of mentorship—at a time.
Sources
- South Side UIC Student’s New Mentorship Nonprofit To Host Back-To-School Bash This Weekend, Block Club Chicago.
