Putnam County families gathered last Saturday for the Reach 2 Teach Back-to-School Bash and Community Health Fair, a free event designed to help students and families prepare for the upcoming school year.
Held at Putnam County Elementary School, Reach 2 Teach provided families with access to health screenings, educational resources, wellness information, and other services. Students also received free back-to-school supplies while supplies lasted.
Mercer University was among the organizations participating, joining healthcare providers and community groups in offering health screenings, education, and wellness resources throughout the day.
The back-to-school event was held alongside the Jalon and Gerald Kilgore Football Camp at Al Reaves Field, allowing Putnam County families to participate in two events to support local youth. Both Kilgore brothers, former Putnam County football standouts, attended the health fair following their football camp, spending time with families and community members.
“This is an awesome opportunity for the boys to come back to their hometown, home field, small town here in Putnam County, and get a chance to give back,” James Kilgore Sr. said. “This is what the dream was about. The whole dream, the whole process is about coming back to this city and making a difference.”
Kilgore Sr. said the biggest goal of events like the Back-to-School Bash is showing young people that opportunities are available to them, regardless of where they come from.
“We want to see this change and increase the awareness that it’s possible,” he said. 'We want the culture even to grow and build a culture of winners year after year. Let the children know this doorway is open. There are possibilities.”
Kilgore Sr. also encouraged students to focus on education, make good choices, and continue working toward their goals.
“Make sure you get your education. Make sure you respect your parents, make sure that you're making the right choices,” he said. “But at the same time, remember, your dream is possible. You can do it.”
The day also included a special recognition for Jalon Kilgore, who was drafted by the NFL’s Buffalo Bills earlier this year. Eatonton Mayor John Reid presented him with a city proclamation declaring July 11 as Jalon Kilgore Day of Celebration.
Organizers credited the event’s success to the support of sponsors, volunteers, community partners, Putnam County Charter School System Superintendent Derrick Austin, and the many organizations that help provide services and resources to local families.