A successful Back-to-School Fair was held the first Saturday in August at Indian Springs Market Place. It was a really hot day but that did not discourage long lies of families waiting patiently to get school supplies, a library book, health screenings and immunizations. Early figures indicate that 3,200 back packs filled with essential school supplies were given to school age children in Wyandotte County. 
   This event was made possible through the dedication and hard work of volunteers. Thanks to the volunteers on the planning committee who worked many months and countless hours in planning. Thank you to the many volunteers who responded to a plea to fill the backpacks when the supplies were finally delivered. 
   The day of the event, volunteers helped register each family, distribute backpacks and library books, made sure those waiting had water to drink and served lunch to all visitors. Of course, volunteers helped set-up for the event, keep the venue trash free and helped take down after the event. More than 750 volunteer hours were contributed on Saturday alone and another 280 contributed the week of the event. With the value of one volunteer hour equaling $20.85 that means the financial effect of the volunteers helping with the BTSF was $21,475.50.
   Thank you, to all those who helped with the Wyandotte County Back-to-School Fair. Without your hard work and support this event would not be possible.
   Diane Hentges is the director of the Volunteer Center at the United Way of Wyandotte County.