Cheerful Photos From the 10th Annual 'Back-2-School' Block Party in Harlem
The annual celebration equips local youth with the tools and resources needed for a successful school year.
Beyond backpacks and binders, back-to-school season symbolizes new beginnings, and this year’s 10th Annual "Back-2-School" event—hosted on Aug. 28—helped local youth usher in the academic year on a high note. Ahead of the official return to the classroom, the NYPD 26th Precinct’s Community Affairs division, Manhattan Community Board 9 and the West Harlem Development Corporation—with support from Columbia Community Service, Columbia University Facilities and Operations’ Construction Business Initiatives unit, Columbia’s Office of Public Safety, and other local organizations—hosted a massive Manhattanville block party.
The community-driven celebration featured a free distribution of backpacks and school supply essentials, face painting, fun-filled games, lively tunes spun by a local DJ, and a resource corner where families learned about Upper Manhattan programs and initiatives. This year’s event also included a mix of new activities, including rock climbing and a colorful cotton candy station.
Check out this collection of photos from the celebratory afternoon!
