The Back-to-School Extravaganza is Angel of Edgewood’s signature annual event dedicated to supporting Connecticut families as they prepare for the new school year. This free, community-centered gathering offers students access to essential school supplies, new clothing, health screenings, and mental health resources—all in one uplifting, festival-style setting. Our goal is to remove barriers and provide every child with the tools and confidence they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond. With live music, guest speakers, and local partnerships, this event is more than just a giveaway—it’s a movement for equity, empowerment, and unity.
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About the Back-to-School Extravaganza
The Back to School Extravaganza, now heading into its fifth year, has become a signature event in the Greater Hartford area thanks to the tireless leadership of Angel of Edgewood. Hosted at Dunkin’ Park, this annual celebration provides thousands of local students with school supplies, fresh food, dental and vision care, mental health screenings, and joyful experiences as they prepare for the new school year. What started as a grassroots effort has grown into a city-wide movement powered by generous sponsors, community partners, and volunteers—all committed to ensuring that no child starts the year at a disadvantage.
At the heart of it all is Jendayi Scott-Miller. She’s not just the founder of Angel of Edgewood—she’s the soul behind its mission. Her deep connection to the community and relentless advocacy for underserved families make this event more than just a giveaway—it’s a gesture of dignity and love. Jendayi brings a rare blend of strategic vision and lived empathy, creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and inspired. The Back to School Extravaganza is an extension of her belief that everyone deserves a fair start and a full heart.
Platinum Sponsor Spotlight: Bertera Subaru of Hartford
We’re proud to recognize Bertera Subaru of Hartford as our Platinum Sponsor for the 5th Annual Back-to-School Extravaganza. Their unwavering support has helped us make this event bigger and more impactful than ever.
As part of the Subaru Love Promise, Bertera Subaru of Hartford continues to uplift local families by investing in education, equity, and community connection. At this year’s event, they brought the excitement with the Subaru Experience Booth—giving kids and parents alike a chance to explore brand-new vehicles, grab giveaways, and take photos that captured the moment.
This kind of partnership reflects the power of local businesses working together for something bigger. We’re grateful to Bertera Subaru for helping us ensure every child starts the school year strong and seen.
Official Media Sponser
FOX61 has been a proud supporter of Angel of Edgewood’s Back‑to‑School Extravaganza, providing meaningful coverage that highlights the event’s impact on Hartford families. Their feature on the fourth annual celebration at Dunkin’ Park showcased students receiving school supplies, fresh produce, and access to vision, dental, and mental health services—demonstrating the media and community-wide support behind the effort. Watch the 2024 FOX61 segment here.
FOX61 also highlighted event founder Jendayi Scott‑Miller’s leadership during a special interview with host Keith McGilvery, emphasizing her commitment to underserved families in Hartford. As shared on Facebook, Jendayi’s passion and vision go beyond logistics—she’s working to ensure every child starts the school year with confidence and dignity.
🎤 Special Guest MC
Bridgette Bjorlo
Emmy Award-winning journalist and FOX61 Morning News anchor Bridgette Bjorlo brings two decades of impactful storytelling across the U.S.—from political coverage and national wildfires to viral human-interest stories. Now based in Hartford, she co-anchors FOX61 Morning News from 5–9 a.m. and continues to use her platform to amplify voices and community needs.
Honored Speakers
🎤 CT State Treasurer Erick Russell
It’s an honor to welcome Erick Russell, Connecticut’s 84th State Treasurer, as an honorary speaker. Appointed on January 4, 2023, Russell made history as the first openly gay African American elected to statewide office.
A Yale Law graduate and former partner at Pullman & Comley, he now oversees over $50 billion in pension assets and launched the nation’s first CT Baby Bonds program to help break the cycle of generational poverty.
Russell is a passionate advocate for economic justice, equity, and financial literacy.
🎙️ Dr. Javeed Sukhera, MD, PhD, FRCPC
We’re privileged to feature Dr. Javeed Sukhera, Chair of Psychiatry at the Institute of Living and Chief of Psychiatry at Hartford Hospital. He is also the founding director of Hartford’s Center for Research on Racial Trauma and Community Healing.
An internationally recognized clinician, educator, and scientist, Dr. Sukhera has championed transformative work on stigma, bias, and trauma in healthcare and education.
His groundbreaking vision—called “Radical Recovery”—integrates patient voices, advances health equity, and drives systemic change in mental health services.
Special Thanks To the Following Supporters:
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Bronze Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Bronze Sponsors
🌟 Special Thanks to Guy Neumann & GN Construction
For over 20 years of unwavering support, Guy Neumann and his team at GN Construction have stood alongside Angel of Edgewood—helping build not just structures, but hope, healing, and opportunity for Hartford families. We are deeply grateful for your dedication, leadership, and heart.
Join the Movement
Explore meaningful ways to make a difference in the lives of Hartford’s youth. Whether through donations, volunteering, or partnering as a vendor or sponsor, your involvement is vital to our mission.
Support Through Donations
Your generous contributions help us provide essential resources such as school supplies, mental health support, and entertainment for the community. Every donation counts towards creating a brighter future.
Volunteer Opportunities
Join our team of dedicated volunteers to bring the Back-to-School Extravaganza to life. From event setup to engaging with attendees, your support is crucial in making this event a success.