Community Spirit Shines at Second Macedonia Missionary Baptist Back-to-School Bash
By: Shelia Mader
Barbara Smith is a familiar name in Malone, known for her tireless commitment to community giving and her awareness of all things happening in and around Jackson County, be it school, church, or community events. With the 2025-2026 school year fast approaching, Smith decided to once again host a back-to-school celebration for local youth, building on the success of last year’s event.
Held at Second Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, the “Back-to-School Bash” embraced the theme Faith, Love, Empower, Connect, and Share. The day offered students and families one final opportunity to enjoy summer fun before the start of classes, while also preparing them with the supplies they need for a strong start to the year.
“Our goal was to equip students for success and remind them that our church family is here to support them,” Smith said. “We wanted to give them a fabulous kick-off to the 2025-2026 school year.”
The event featured a variety of activities designed to foster excitement for school and strengthen community bonds. Families enjoyed games like tug-of-war, sack races, dodgeball, hula hoop contests, and even a water slide. Guests also got a close-up look at fire safety demonstrations and toured an ambulance, thanks to the participation of the Malone Volunteer Fire Department and Jackson County Fire & Rescue.
In addition to games and food, the event provided a practical boost for families. Students received backpacks filled with pencils, paper, crayons, scissors, and binders. A clothing giveaway offered everything from toddler outfits to adult attire, ensuring that any family member in need could benefit.
Smith emphasized that the day was made possible through the generous contributions of community members and organizations. She expressed gratitude to Interim Pastor Calvin Collins and family, Striving for Perfection Ministries, Pastor Larry Boldin, Jackson County School Board Superintendent Hunter Nolen, Mayor Brandon Watford, James Miller, Flora Beard and Collins Chapel Church, Prince from Panama City, Diane Collins, McChapel AME, Shirley Kelly, the Sunday Best Book Club, Johnny Curry, Reverend Jennifer Lewis, Kristie and Glenda Miley, Greater St. Luke AME Church, Jacquett from Ocala, Adrian Clark from Maryland, Minister Karla from Leesburg, Fred Barnes, the Grill Master, and many others, including members of Second Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church and Sign Gypsies TriState.
“I think it was a success,” Smith said. “We had about 75 people attend. Everyone seemed to have a great time, left happy, full, and ready with school supplies. It was our way of blessing families and giving back to the community, while sharing the love of Christ through meaningful service.”
The combination of fun, fellowship, and generosity ensured the event met its mission, empowering students and reminding them that their community is behind them every step of the way.