On Saturday, August 9th, Heyl Family Practice hosted our 2nd Annual Backpack Bonanza at our West View office — an event that proved to be more than just a back-to-school supply drive. It was a true community celebration, bringing together nearly 200 attendees, including families and their children, local businesses, and first responders, all united in the spirit of helping students start the school year prepared and confident.
Bigger Impact, Bigger Smiles
Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of donors and sponsors, we collected enough to provide 150 backpacks and a fully stocked buffet with supplies for the local students in the surrounding communities. On the day of the event, 95 students from Pre-K through 12th grade selected their own supplies from our “shopping” tables, which were stocked with requested items from local schools in the area. Children could pick out exactly what they needed — from notebooks and folders to markers and highlighters — making the process both fun and personalized.
What the Day Felt Like
The Backpack Bonanza wasn’t just about the supplies — it was about connection. Families had the opportunity to enjoy time together, with sweet treats and good eats, chatting with first responders, and celebrating the excitement of a new school year.
Gina, an employee at the practice who volunteered for the event alongside her husband, Abhinav, truly felt the impact of the event. “When I would ask the kids if they were excited to start school or what grade they were starting, they always answered with such enthusiasm! It was contagious! This event wasn’t just about handing out supplies; it was about celebrating the start of the school year together and showing West View families we’re here for them.”
Local law enforcement also took notice. Detective Matt Pavlicic from West View Borough Police Department commented that he appreciates how Heyl Family Practice doesn’t just donate to causes but actively participates in bringing people together and creating opportunities for connection.
Beyond the Backpacks: Supporting Our Teachers
As we reviewed the school supply lists, we noticed many “classroom items” that teachers often have to purchase themselves. We decided to go one step further this year by assembling classroom supply baskets for every teacher at a local elementary school in our area. These baskets are filled with frequently requested and hard-to-get items, plus leftover supplies from the Backpack Bonanza, ensuring classrooms are well-stocked before the first day of school. Our team will personally deliver these baskets before the school year begins — a gesture we hope will make teachers feel as supported as their students.
Community Support That Made It Possible
We were honored to have an incredible roster of local supporters:
Primary Event Sponsors: Malick Brothers, Bentz Chiropractic, Mazur Collision, and Mike & Tony’s (who donated nearly 50 backpacks).
Food & Treat Donors: Center Avenue Slice (pizza), Monte Cellos (salad and pasta), Betsy Ann Chocolates (chocolate-covered pretzels), and Soergel’s Orchards (cookie tray).
Giveaway Donors: Chick-fil-A (McKnight Road), Texas Roadhouse (McKnight Road), Conservatory of Dance, Studio Raw Elite. Yeung's Kitchen, Royal Myanmar, Giant Eagle, and Caliente Pizza and Drafthouse
School Supply Collectors and Donors: Bethany Hospice, West View U-Haul, Dollar General in West View, GameMasters/Dragon Roast Coffee, Laurel Garden's Tire, O'Reilly Autoparts, Pray Focus Grind, Elite Custom Fitness, and West View Brew
Community Guests: Ross/West View EMS, West View Volunteer Fire Department, and West View Police Department featuring a local celebrity, Scruff McGruff, who brought both smiles and safety awareness.
More than that, nearly 20 Heyl Family Practice staff members and their families volunteered their time to make sure every detail ran smoothly.
More Than a Doctor’s Office
At Heyl Family Practice, we believe healthcare extends beyond the exam room. We want to be seen not just as a place to visit when you’re sick, but as a trusted community resource — for you, your family, and your neighbors. Events like the Backpack Bonanza reflect our commitment to supporting the whole person and the whole community. We look forward to
We are always welcoming new patients who are looking for a wholesome, long-term relationship with their family doctors — and we look forward to continuing to give back to the West View community in meaningful ways. If you are looking for a relationship with your PCP like the one we described, click the button below to submit a request or call the office during normal business hours (412-931-3066).
Looking Ahead
We’re already excited to start planning the 3rd Annual Backpack Bonanza in 2026. Whether through donations, sponsorships, or volunteering, there will be plenty of ways to get involved. We hope you’ll join us in making next year’s event even bigger and better.
