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Join us in spreading hope and kindness through Backpacks of Hope.

Backpacks of Hope is a tribute to John Zachery Septer, a beacon of light who believed in helping others. We provide essential items to those in need, spreading love and support in his memory.

Take a Look

13

years.

8,000+

backpacks.

Thousands

of people helped.

Events

Upcoming Events

  • Fundraising Event at Huntington University Basketball Game
    Fundraising Event at Huntington University Basketball Game
    Fundraising Event at Huntington University Basketball Game
    Wed, Nov 20
    Huntington University
    Nov 20, 2024, 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
    Huntington University , 2303 College Ave, Huntington, IN 46750, USA
    Nov 20, 2024, 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
    Huntington University , 2303 College Ave, Huntington, IN 46750, USA
    Come see us at HU's biggest game of the season!
    Share
  • Night of Giving
    Night of Giving
    Night of Giving
    February 1st, 2025. Time is TBD
    Fort Wayne
    February 1st, 2025. Time is TBD
    Fort Wayne, 404 E Washington Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46802, USA
    February 1st, 2025. Time is TBD
    Fort Wayne, 404 E Washington Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46802, USA
    We are celebrating the month of LOVE this year for our night of giving! Come see us on February 1st, 2025.
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About

Our Mission

Backpacks of Hope in Memory of John Zachery Septer is on a mission to support the less fortunate by providing essential items through backpack handouts. We aim to raise awareness, collect donations, and ensure a sustainable impact on the lives of those in need.

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Our organization believes in the power of community and compassion. By coming together, we can create a positive change for individuals facing hardships. Join us on this journey to spread hope and kindness.

Projects

Our current projects focus on distributing essential items to those in need, including food, warm items, and hygiene products. Through these initiatives, we strive to make a meaningful impact on the lives of the less fortunate.

The Rescue Mission

Main Event Handing Out Backpacks

Our main event at The Rescue Mission aims to provide individuals in need with backpacks filled with essential hygiene products, warm items, and nonperishable food items.

VA of Northern Indiana

Helping Our Veterans

Every year, we supply a backpack to about 250 veterans in need within our community.

Huntington Soup Kitchen

Lending A Hand

We deliver backpacks to our local soup kitchen so they can distribute them to individuals in need within the town where our foundation was established.

Charis House

Supporting Children In Our Community 

We offer Departure Bags containing essential items for children who are transitioning out of the Charis House.

Local Police and Sheriff Departments 

Street Outreach

We provide backpacks filled with essential items for local law enforcement to keep in their vehicles and give to individuals in need they encounter on the streets.

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