What is Project Backpack?
Attorney Joseph Blaszkow is CEO of Blaszkow Legal, PLLC, which is Alexandria’s leading car accident and personal injury law firm. The firm has been located in Alexandria for the last 12 years, after relocating from DC. Mr. Blaszkow decided that he wanted to give back to the community that has helped the firm to prosper and thrive, and began exploring a way to do that.
He started planning Project Backpack in 2022, with an eye towards giving back to the community, specifically the younger generation of Alexandrians when he was told that there was a significant need for backpacks and school supplies for new and returning students. The wheels were still being put into motion when the 2022 school year started, so the roll-out had to be put off until the 2023 school year.
The first Project Backpack event was a smaller giveaway, and focused on one local school, the John Adams Elementary School. The event was held in the school’s gymnasium, and was helped by the JAES PTA, who sent in numerous volunteers to help stuff and handout the backpacks! An extravaganza atmosphere was created too, with a face painter present and a man who made balloon animals for the kids. Food and shaved-ice treats were also available!
The Project Backpack giveaway for 2024 is planned to be a much larger event, and will be held at the Blaszkow Legal headquarters building near the intersection of I-395 and Edsall Road. Students and their families can come, park, get their backpacks and school supplies, and have food and fun while they wait!
Some pictures from the 2024 Project Backpack Giveaway!
Some pictures from the 2023 Project Backpack Giveaway!
A happy family gets their Backpacks, and other Back-to-School supplies!
The line was out the door!
One of our youngest volunteers!
Backpacks and rock-climbing!
The lovely Ms Barbara helps to distribute some more backpacks.
Mr. Blaszkow receives a plaque from John Adams Elementary School Principal Dr. Alicia Kingcade.
Shaved Ice for all!