Start Out Right is an annual back to school event in South Everett. It is 100 percent volunteer-driven by people who are passionate about the kids on Casino Road. The event is lead by the South Everett Foursquare church but involves the local schools, community groups, police and others who care about this neighborhood. 

• In 2007 we gave away 217 backpacks filled with school supplies.
• In 2008 we gave away 1,086 backpacks filled with school supplies.
• In 2009, our goal is to give away more than 2,000 backpacks filled with school supplies.

We know these kids and we know they have potential for greatness. They are the source of hope for our community.

Yet the kids of Casino Road face many challenges on their road to fulfilling that potential. More than 72 percent of them are considered low-income. Many come from broken families. Drugs, gang violence and prostitution make up the fabric of every day life for these kids.

And though the backpacks these kids get at Start Out Right won’t make all of their problems go away, it does make one problem go away. It enables them to start the school year out with the supplies they need for success. And when they get that backpack at Start Out Right, it also reconnects them with a community of people who care for them as we celebrate with live music, food, games and activities. Start Out Right is a critical tool we can use as we work together to build a safe, positive community on Casino Road.

Please help us make a difference on Casino Road. Help feed the hope of its future by making a tax-deductible contribution to Start Out Right today.