700 Backpacks to Kids in Need with AHG Has Your Back!

Another successful community event for the books: the sixth annual AHG Has Your Back — put on by Ascend Hospitality Group (AHG) with partner Amazon — brought the back-to-school fun on Saturday, July 25th! 

Students from five different nonprofits had an afternoon of carnival-themed amusement at the “Dream Big” pickup party at the Meadow, Amazon’s new outdoor gathering place in downtown Bellevue, for the annual back-to-school program.

700 recipients took home a premium backpack and were given the opportunity to select their own school supplies, personalize their pack, play carnival games like the Striker and Giant Skeeball, have their faces painted or get glitter tattoos, dance to beats by local DJ rpeeezy and the Eastside's own Seismic Sound Drumline, and savor a complimentary lunch from Stanford's Food Truck. 

“AHG has been honored to partner with Amazon on this meaningful initiative, helping provide more than 4,000 backpacks to local students in need over the last six years,” said Elaina Morris, co-founder and CEO of AHG and AHG Cares. “This year’s AHG Has Your Back: Dream Big carnival was designed to remind every child that their dreams are worth celebrating and that their community believes in their potential. We wanted the experience to be just as inspiring as it was fun, giving kids the chance to express themselves, build confidence, and start the school year feeling seen and supported. A backpack is more than just school supplies — it’s a symbol of possibility. Through personalized activities, games, and the generosity of our partnership with Amazon, we’re proud to help 700 students head back to school with excitement, confidence, and a true sense of belonging!”

*All photos courtesy of Ascend Hospitality Group