As nearly 200 families prepared for the start of a new school year, one Atlanta community came together to prove that investing in neighborhoods begins with investing in people.

On Saturday, July 11, Wingate Companies welcomed residents of Trestletree Village and neighboring families to The Vision Cathedral of Atlanta for a Back-to-School Community Resource Fair designed to provide essential services, school supplies and meaningful community support.

From backpacks filled with school supplies and complimentary haircuts to health screenings, immunizations, school and sports physicals, meals and family resources, the event transformed an ordinary Saturday into a celebration of community partnership and service.

Children enjoyed a variety of activities throughout the afternoon, including a virtual reality game truck, a visit from a local fire truck and a special appearance by the beloved superhero, Agent Ask, while parents connected with organizations offering valuable healthcare and family support resources.

Firefighters pose with a community member in front of the virtual reality game truck

The community event was made possible through a collaborative effort between Wingate Companies, Celebs Give Back, PNC Bank, WIC, healthcare professionals, local barbers, volunteers and several community businesses that united around a shared mission: ensuring children return to school equipped with the tools they need to succeed.

For Wingate, the event represented more than simply distributing backpacks—it reflected the company’s ongoing commitment to building relationships within the communities it serves.

“At Wingate, we believe strong communities are built by showing up, listening and investing in people,” said Tanya Weeks, Executive with Wingate Companies. “Today’s event wasn’t simply about preparing children for the school year—it was about reminding families that they matter, that they’re supported, and that we want to be a positive partner in the community. This is just the beginning of many opportunities for us to continue serving alongside our community partners.”

A barber paints a tiger design on a child’s face in a barbershop chair

Residents expressed appreciation for the opportunity to receive much-needed resources while spending time with neighbors and community partners in a welcoming environment. Many shared that Wingate’s investment in the event demonstrated a sincere commitment to understanding and supporting the needs of local families.

Throughout the afternoon, Weeks also spoke with local television affiliates, including NBC, CBS and FOX 5, about the importance of community-centered initiatives that extend beyond housing and focus on strengthening neighborhoods through partnership, trust and consistent engagement.

“When families thrive, communities thrive,” Weeks said. “Bringing organizations together to provide school supplies, healthcare resources, haircuts and other essential services is one small way we can make a meaningful difference. We’re grateful to every partner who helped make today possible, and we’re excited to continue finding ways to support the residents and families we serve.”

Families browse rows of backpacks at the Back-to-School Community Resource Fair

The Back-to-School Community Resource Fair marks one of several community-focused initiatives Wingate plans to support in the months ahead as the company continues working alongside residents, nonprofit organizations, faith leaders and community partners to create opportunities that improve quality of life.

For the families who left with backpacks in hand and smiles on their faces, the day served as a reminder that strong communities are built not only through investment, but through compassion, collaboration and a genuine commitment to showing up for one another.