The Greater Tulsa Association of Realtors (GTAR) is proudly launching the 20th annual Backpacks for Kids campaign — a milestone year marked by a renewed mission: to deliver both practical support and joyful experiences to hundreds of children served by Family & Children’s Services (FCS).
This year’s recipients include youth and families involved in essential FCS programs such as Women in Recovery (WIR), Child Abuse and Trauma Services (CATS), Comprehensive Home-Based Services (CHBS), Early Childhood, Systems of Care (SOC), School-Based Services, and SafeCare® Home-Based Parenting.
What began in 2006 as a small initiative to help 100 children with a $5,000 budget and a few backpacks has grown into a cornerstone of Tulsa’s community outreach. Since its inception, the campaign has supported more than 8,000 children — blending hearts with a strategy to create lasting impact.
Now in 2025, the campaign is reaching new heights. Thanks to a record-breaking $70,000 raised through GTAR’s annual golf tournament, private donations, and expanded local sponsorships, this year’s effort will provide 708 children with fully stocked backpacks. Each one includes not only new school clothes and shoes, but also personal care items like deodorant, toothbrushes, and toothpaste — reflecting a growing emphasis on holistic well-being.
This year’s celebration will feature a lively disco theme, complete with:
- Free pizza and ice cream
- On-site haircuts
- A photo booth
- Games and festive decor
- A shoe giveaway station
With the support of 40-50 volunteers, including local Realtors, business partners and community members, GTAR continues to show that its commitment goes far beyond real estate — it’s about building brighter futures.
Shelley Carson, co-chair of GTAR’s Community Affairs Committee, and Crystal Houck, senior director of FCS’s parent support programs, remain passionate champions of the campaign. They describe it as a “labor of love” — one that has grown in purpose and impact over two transformative decades.
To learn more or get involved, visit the Backpacks for Kids information page.
