Washington Mystics staff and players are supporting students across the region with supplies to start the school year.
Team employees joined United Way of the National Capital Area (United Way NCA) at the annual Stuff the Bus volunteer event Aug. 17. They worked alongside dozens of other volunteers to fill 500 backpacks with grade-appropriate school supplies for students at schools across the region.
“I just hope (students) feel the support of many others who have touched every school supply here. Everyone here has lent a hand in some capacity,” Washington Mystics Fan Development Coordinator Deja Lakin said. “I just hope they feel support because that’s what’s needed most.”
The team hosted United Way NCA at its Aug. 19 game against the Toronto Tempo, where fans were encouraged to bring new school supplies to support the Stuff the Bus effort.
Volunteers with Shiseido Americas organized the donated school supplies for distribution to United Way NCA Community Schools.
“The chance to give back is always an opportunity I want to be a part of,” Washington Mystics employee Victoria Rush said. “Even though the season’s ending, the school year is just beginning. So, it’s a perfect time to do that.”
Team employees continued their volunteer efforts Sept. 18, assembling 250 more school supply and snack packs, each with an encouragement card and a message from Mystics forward Kiki Iriafen. Iriafen also donated Skechers socks to students. Her message read:
You’ve got this. And I’m cheering you on.
As an athlete, I know how much confidence comes from feeling prepared—and from believing in yourself when it’s time to step up.
I hope these supplies help you start the school year feeling ready to do your best. Whether you’re filling a notebook with new ideas, putting pencil to paper, or putting on your new Skechers socks before heading out the door, think of them as a little extra support for everything you’re capable of doing.
There will be days when things feel easy and days when they don’t. Keep showing up. Trust yourself. Be proud of your progress. You might surprise yourself with just how much you can do.
I’m cheering you on, and so is the entire Washington Mystics family. Have an amazing school year. Go make it yours!
The Mystics also donated $10,000 to United Way NCA.
“When we come together, we can advance and make so much change,” Christina Alexander, United Way NCA Vice President of Development and Philanthropy, said. “We need to make sure those materials and resources are there for (students) throughout the school year.”
Explore how you can get involved with United Way NCA’s Mid-Year Stuff the Bus.
