Back-to-School Bingo: Belle Terrace Presbyterian Church Thinks Outside the Box to Serve Youth

Belle Terrace Presbyterian Church in Augusta, Georgia (Northeast Georgia Presbytery) recently hosted its first-ever Back-to School Bingo, a creative and impactful outreach event designed to encourage and support local youth as they prepare for the new school year. The idea for the event came shortly after a First Sunday message from former pastor Rev. Larry Hill, who challenged the congregation to think outside the box when it comes to community engagement and to seek opportunities for collaboration.

That same evening, a member felt inspired to create a fun and welcoming space for youth — and the idea for Back-to-School Bingo was born. The Evangelism Ministry collaboration with generous community partners, the vision came to life. Held on Sunday, July 27, the event prepared for 50 youth ages 7-18, 30 youth participants showed up ready for fun. All youth attendees were treated to fun, fellowship — and most importantly — back to school gift card prizes. A total of $595 in gift cards were distributed, ensuring that every young person went home a winner. Gift cards included H&M, Foot Locker, Children’s Place, Kohl’s, TJ Maxx, Finish Line, Old Navy, Walmart, and Amazon.

This event would not have been possible without the partnership and generosity of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. – Zeta Xi Omega Chapter, Elder Al Simmons of Remax, and the Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce. Their support exemplified the kind of collaborative spirit that Rev. Hill encouraged.

Back-to-School Bingo may have been a small event in scale, but it made a big impact in the hearts of those who attended. Belle Terrace Presbyterian Church looks forward to building on this success and hopes to make this outreach an annual tradition to serve and celebrate the youth of the community.