When it comes to making a difference, it’s easy to assume we need a lot of time, money, or expertise to have an impact. But meaningful change often starts with a single action.
That’s the idea behind One Thing You Can Do This Month—a simple challenge designed to help us make a positive difference in our communities, one small step at a time.
As summer winds down, many families are preparing for a new school year. While back-to-school shopping is a yearly routine for some, others face difficult choices when it comes to purchasing the supplies their children need to succeed in the classroom.
That’s why this month’s challenge is simple:
This Month’s Challenge: Help a Student Start the School Year Strong
A backpack, notebooks, pencils, calculators, and other basic school supplies may seem like small things, but they can make a big difference in a student’s confidence and readiness to learn.
Here are a few ways you can help.
Donate School Supplies
Many schools, community organizations, and nonprofits collect supplies throughout August to support students and families in need.
Commonly requested items include:
- Backpacks
- Notebooks and folders
- Pens and pencils
- Crayons and markers
- Glue sticks
- Calculators
- Tissues and hand sanitizer
Consider picking up an extra item or two during your next shopping trip and donating them to a local drive.
Host a Backpack Packing Event at Work
Staci Russell, and the California Closets Florida Owned Operations team planned a timely event to stuff backpacks for underprivileged students from local schools. The team had fun doing the event together and built new connections with their community.
“Belonging means ensuring every student feels supported and set up for success. By stuffing backpacks for these local students, we’re helping create a more inclusive community and giving children the tools they need to start the school year with confidence,” said Staci Russell, Regional General Manager, FL.
Masha Alimova shared what another California Closets team did to put a unique spin on their backpack event. They hosted a backpack decorating project, creating personalized backpacks for children and families in need. Using the same creativity and attention to detail they bring to their work every day, volunteers transformed 200 backpacks into colorful, one-of-a-kind gifts designed to make children feel special.
The backpacks, along with donated art supplies, will soon be making their way into the hands of local children. One hundred backpacks and supplies will be donated to a nonprofit children’s center in Ossining, while another 100 will be distributed to local families in need in Rockland County during the New York showroom opening.
The effort was about more than backpacks. Team members also personally donated crayons, markers, coloring books, drawing pads, and activity books to help encourage creativity and fun for the children who receive them.
Leaders Bob, Bob, and Rob generously donated 200 backpacks and decorating supplies. Their support made the project possible and will help create meaningful moments for children and families across the community. NY’s marketing intern Azim coordinated this fun event.
From colorful designs to thoughtful donations, the project was a great example of California Closets doing what it does best, adding a personal touch and making a positive impact, one design at a time.
Support a Teacher’s Classroom
Many educators purchase classroom materials with their own money each year. Supporting a teacher can help ensure students have access to the resources they need.
You might:
- Donate classroom supplies
- Contribute to a teacher’s wish list
- Volunteer for school events
- Share words of encouragement as the school year begins
Volunteer Your Time
Schools and youth-serving organizations often welcome volunteers for:
- Back-to-school events
- Student mentoring programs
- Reading support
- Career exploration activities
Even a few hours can make a meaningful impact.
Share Your Knowledge
Your experience can be valuable to a student who is exploring future career possibilities. Consider volunteering as a mentor, participating in a career day, or speaking with students about your professional journey.
You never know when a conversation might spark a new interest or inspire a future path.
Why It Matters
When students have the tools, resources, and support they need, they’re better positioned to learn, grow, and succeed. And when communities invest in young people, everyone benefits.
Supporting students doesn’t require a major commitment. A backpack, a notebook, a volunteer shift, or a conversation can all help create opportunities for the next generation.
This month, choose one way to support students in your community. Small acts of generosity can help set the stage for a successful school year—and a brighter future.
