Elevate WeHa & CPCGH: Back to School Bash at Blue Back Square:

Join us in Blue Back Square for an unforgettable afternoon of youth-led fun, creative activities, and live entertainment as we celebrate the power of art, wellness, and community! This special event combines the Elevate WeHa Back to School Bash with the annual Concerned Parents of Color Greater Hartford (CPCGH) Backpack Giveaway, providing 300 free backpacks filled with essential supplies to West Hartford families.

Event Details:

Date & Time: Friday, August 23, 2025 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Location: Blue Back Square West Hartford, CT 06107

What to Expect:

CPCGH Backpack Giveaway – 300 backpacks filled with school supplies (first-come, first-served)

Live Music & DJ Performances – Enjoy a lineup of local talent

Live Mural Painting – Watch artists create and contribute yourself

Screen Printing Station – Customize your own shirt or tote bag

Youth-Led Art Projects – Collaborative and creative fun

Wellness & Prevention Resources – Information booths from local partners

Snacks, Vendors, and More!

Who Should Attend: Teens, families, educators, and community members! Everyone is welcome to join this free, substance-free celebration.

About Elevate WeHa: Elevate WeHa is a community-driven initiative bringing together youth, art, and wellness to empower the next generation. Led by RiseUP and West Hartford Prevention Partnership, in collaboration with Youth Recovery CT, local schools, town agencies, and now in partnership with Concerned Parents of Color Greater Hartford, we provide leadership opportunities, service projects, and safe creative spaces for teens.

About Concerned Parents of Color Greater Hartford: Concerned Parents of Color Greater Hartford is committed to strengthening communities by providing essential resources and support for families of color throughout Greater Hartford. Learn more at https://www.facebook.com/CPCWH/.

Elevate WeHa hosts Art4Hope: Create Art Therapy Kits for Kids in the ER:

Before the party begins, we’ll be assembling Art4Hope Art Therapy Kits that will be delivered to children in crisis at the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center Emergency Room. These kits are designed to bring comfort, healing, and creativity to young patients during some of their hardest moments.

Whether you're a student, professional, family, or just someone who wants to give back — you’re invited to help us make a difference.

What to Expect:

Assemble art therapy kits using guided instructions and a joyful, hands-on process

Learn more about Elevate WeHa’s mission and how art and service intersect

Engage in a short reflection on how art supports mental health and healing

Receive a small token of appreciation for your support

Stay for the Block Party!

After the kit assembly, we invite you to stick around for the Blue Back Block Party!Enjoy:

Live music

Family-friendly activities

Pop-up vendors and giveaways

Specialty mocktails and more fun in Elevate WeHa’s Substance-Free Zone

It’s a celebration of community, creativity, and wellness — and we’d love to have you be a part of it.

All Ages Welcome | No Cost to Attend | Supplies Provided

Spots are limited, so please register today!For questions, email us at: info@theriseupgroup.org

GOOD TO KNOW

For West Hartford High School Students: This volunteer opportunity is designed specifically for high school youth in West Hartford looking to give back and earn service hours.

Service Hours Provided: Official credit will be provided for your participation — a great addition to college and job applications.

All Supplies Provided: We’ve got everything you need to assemble Art4Hope Kits for children in the ER.

Stay for the Block Party: After volunteering, enjoy the Blue Back Square Block Party with friends, including Elevate WeHa’s Substance-Free Mocktail Zone and youth-led art activities.

About Art4Hope Kits: These kits go directly to children entering the ER at Connecticut Children's Medical Center, offering comfort through creativity.

Powered by Local Youth Organizations: This event is a collaboration between Elevate WeHa, RiseUP for Arts, and the West Hartford Prevention Partnership, all working together to support healthy youth development and positive community engagement. Funded by CT Youth Recovery.

About RiseUP & West Hartford Prevention Partnership?RiseUP for Arts is Connecticut’s only statewide public art nonprofit. RiseUP empowers youth and communities through public art projects, mural-making, and leadership programs like the Creative Leadership Program. RiseUP created the Art4Hope Kit initiative to support emotional wellness for children during crisis situations.

The West Hartford Prevention Partnership (WHPP) is a local coalition of youth, parents, schools, and community leaders focused on preventing substance misuse and promoting positive decision-making among West Hartford teens.