On September 8, 2013, Rob Rivers will run the Park’s Half Marathon in Rockville, Maryland in support of Umbrella Initiative’s Backpack Project. His goal is to raise at least $2,000.00, which will provide for a week of academic reinforcement and backpack for over 80 children. Over the past few weeks Rob has been training hard and running over 25 miles per week and is hoping that his training and your support will lead to a more successful Backpack Project!

To support him and the Backpack Project visit Support to donate or email robert.rivers@umbrellainitiatives.org about other ways to support him in the race. will go to support our signature outreach Backpack Project.

Goal of the Backpack Project

The Backpack Project aims to give a better start for children living in poverty through providing a backpack, supplies, and one week of scholastic reinforcement for children in need. Umbrella works with 12 local churches and community organizations providing the materials and supplies in addition to a general plan of action for the groups to use. The community groups work with local schools in their area and sign agreements to use the school’s classrooms for the week of classes.

Through your support we are planning to expand the project from reaching 500 children in 2013 to hopefully reaching 1,000 children for 2014. However, to make this possible we need your support to reach those in needs. Specifically through your support of $25.00 we can provide one backpack and supplies for one child and cover related cost such as programmatic work and refreshments during the week of class.