Giving Back Together: Northwest AHEC Supports the Forsyth Backpack Program During National Volunteer Month

April is National Volunteer Month, a time to celebrate the power of service and the meaningful impact that happens when organizations and community partners come together to support those in need. This year, Northwest AHEC was proud to volunteer alongside Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center SERVES in support of the Forsyth Backpack Program, a local nonprofit dedicated to helping children facing food insecurity.

Thanks to the incredible generosity and teamwork of Atrium Health teammates, more than 11,000 food bags were assembled—each one filled with nutritious food to support students in Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools (WSFCS) Title I schools. Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist purchased and donated the food used in the packing effort, helping ensure students have access to meals outside of school hours.

Supporting Children Beyond the Classroom

The Forsyth Backpack Program is a volunteer-led, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Forsyth County. Its mission is simple yet impactful: to provide nutritious food in backpacks on weekends and holidays to local school children who have been identified by school personnel as being in need.

For many children, weekends and long school breaks can mean little to no access to food—healthy or otherwise. By receiving weekend food backpacks, students are able to return to school after breaks better prepared to focus, learn, and play, improving their overall well-being and academic readiness.

A Shared Commitment to Community Health

Northwest AHEC’s participation reflects a shared commitment with Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist to strengthen community health, support children and families, and address social drivers of health such as food insecurity. Volunteering side by side during National Volunteer Month reinforced the power of collaboration and the difference that collective action can make.

Moments like these remind us that giving back isn’t just about volunteering time—it’s about investing in the health and future of our communities.

Learn More or Get Involved

To learn more about the Forsyth Backpack Program or find ways to support their mission, visit:
👉 https://forsythbackpackprogram.org

Northwest AHEC is proud to stand with partners who are making a lasting impact, one backpack at a time.