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The Ralph Bunche Community Center is gearing up for the upcoming academic year by hosting its annual Back 2 School Picnic on Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026. The free community event in Benton will offer students essential school supplies, food, and entertainment, while organizers are actively seeking local sponsors and donations to help local children succeed. Read more below.

The picnic is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the community center, located at 1600 Dixie Street in Benton. Families attending the event can expect a wide array of activities, including music, games, and free food. To help students prepare for classes, organizers will distribute backpacks, school supplies, clothes, and shoes, along with providing access to various community resources.

To support the extensive giveaway, the RBCAC is calling on the community now for sponsors, donors, and volunteers. Organizers are seeking a variety of donation items to be used as prizes for attendees. Requested items include big prizes like bicycles, tablets, smart TVs, and gift cards; school and learning materials such as calculators, headphones, art kits, and books; and family fun items like game night baskets and outdoor sports equipment.

They are also accepting health and wellness items, such as fitness trackers and sports balls, along with local business donations like restaurant gift cards, haircut vouchers, and oil change certificates.

The event relies heavily on community partners to provide these resources for local families. Those interested in donating items, volunteering their time, or exploring sponsorship opportunities for the 2026 event are encouraged to contact Shannon Winston at 501-326-2482 or via email at [email protected].

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