About Back To School Extravaganza
Meet the Founders
John Wayne and Bristi Southerland, founders of the Back to School Extravaganza, were inspired by a divine calling to give back to their community. In 2014, they began their mission by assisting 12 children, providing essential school supplies and clothing to those in need. Their unwavering commitment to serving economically challenged students across central Texas has led to significant growth, with the organization now supporting 2,000 students to date. Guided by their faith, the Southerland's emphasize sharing the message of salvation through Jesus with every family they assist, inspiring a 'pay-it-forward' attitude among the children and parents they serve. Their vision is to create a culture that Meet Our Team unites passionate individuals, philanthropic companies, and dedicated volunteers to transform lives and empower the next generation to continue the cycle of giving.
The Back to School Extravaganza is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting economically challenged students across Central Texas by providing essential school supplies and clothing. Since its inception in 2014, the organization has grown from serving 12 students to helping over 300 annually, with a goal of reaching its 2,000th student in 2024. Guided by a mission to empower young lives through education, the Back to School Extravaganza goes beyond supplies, sharing the message of hope and inspiring a pay-it-forward attitude among the children and families it serves.
With the help of generous donors, sponsors, and volunteers, the organization hosts impactful events like shopping days, community fundraisers, and its inaugural gala to raise awareness and resources. Each effort is a testament to the power of community and kindness, ensuring that every child served is equipped not only with school essentials but also with the confidence to succeed. Through its programs, the Back to School Extravaganza continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of students, one family at a time.
What Parents Are Saying
Parents in the video express heartfelt gratitude for the Back to School Extravaganza, highlighting how it provides much-needed relief during financially challenging times. They share how the program helps alleviate the stress of preparing for the school year by offering essential supplies and clothing for their children. Many describe the experience as a blessing, emphasizing the kindness and generosity of the volunteers and donors. Parents also mention how the event inspires their children and brings joy to their families, making them feel cared for and supported by their community.
Our Reviews
"A true blessing...this program helped my kids last year." Rhiannon D.
"Most amazing family! They have helped so many families..." Melissa S.
"Thank yall so much for accepting my daughter." Chigoziri O.
"We are so thankful and truly bless we heard about your program." Julian
Meet the Board
John Wayne Southerland
Trisha Hendrickson
Dominic Mastrangelo
Founder & President
John Wayne Southerland is a seasoned entrepreneur and philanthropist. As the owner of The John Wayne Insurance Agency, John has established himself as a leader in the insurance industry since 2009, bringing a strategic approach and a commitment to excellence to every endeavor.
As a competitor in semi-professional rodeo, John Wayne embodies resilience and determination—qualities that have defined both his personal and professional life. Married for 16 years and a dedicated father of three, he is also guided by his strong faith and is proud to be known as a friend of Jesus.
Beyond his professional achievements, John Wayne is the visionary Founder of the Back to School Extravaganza. With a deep passion for serving children in need, John felt a profound calling from God to make a difference in the lives of young people facing adversity. This calling led him to transform his vision into a powerful mission—providing resources, opportunities, and hope to children in central Texas. Through his unwavering dedication, John has created a lasting impact, helping countless children succeed in school and life. His commitment to giving back is not just a charitable act but a fulfillment of a divine purpose, one that continues to inspire and uplift the community.
Dominic Mastrangelo
Trisha Hendrickson
Dominic Mastrangelo
Vice President
Dominic Mastrangelo has been a steadfast supporter of the Back to School Extravaganza since its early days, playing a pivotal role in its growth and fundraising efforts. As the owner of Net Solutions & Security, he has consistently sponsored and contributed to the organization's mission of providing school supplies and clothing to economically challenged students across Central Texas.
Dominic's unwavering commitment and generosity have been instrumental in expanding the reach and impact of the Back to School Extravaganza, helping to serve over 300 students annually.
His dedication to the community and passion for supporting education continue to inspire others to join in making a difference in the lives of local children.
In recognition of his contributions, Dominic and his company, Net Solutions & Security, have been honored as the "Big Lebowski" sponsor, reflecting their significant role in the success of the organization's events and initiatives.
Trisha Hendrickson
Trisha Hendrickson
Carin Weiss
Public Relations & Marketing
Trisha Hendrickson serves as the Public Relations & Marketing Chair for the Back to School Extravaganza and is Chairing the inaugural Back to School Gala.
As the CEO and Founder of Moxie360 Marketing, Trisha brings her extensive expertise in branding, marketing, and business development to elevate the organization’s mission and connect with the community.
A proud mom of three adult children and grandma to two grandchildren, Trisha’s passion for education began when she became a mother, inspiring her dedication to helping children succeed. Since moving to Texas from Minnesota in 2021, she has become a passionate advocate for children in need, leveraging her skills to expand the organization’s reach and influence.
With a strong history of volunteering for various community initiatives, Trisha's leadership inspires others to get involved and make a difference. Her dedication to empowering young lives reflects her belief that giving back is one of the most impactful ways to create a better future.
Carin Weiss
Carin Weiss
Carin Weiss
Volunteer Coordinator
Carin Weiss is a passionate advocate for education and community empowerment, bringing her expertise as a leader at Klik Solutions to her role as a board member of the Back to School Extravaganza. At Klik Solutions, Carin plays a pivotal role in delivering innovative IT services and strategic solutions, skills that she leverages to enhance the operational success of the Back to School Extravaganza.
Carin is committed to ensuring every child has access to the tools and resources necessary for academic success. Her ability to drive impactful initiatives, streamline processes, and build strong partnerships has been instrumental in helping the organization provide essential school supplies, clothing, and other resources to underserved students.
By combining her professional experience in technology and strategic planning with her dedication to community service, Carin is a driving force in advancing the mission of the Back to School Extravaganza, creating equitable opportunities and brighter futures for students in need.
Garrett Rowe
Carin Weiss
Cindy Southerland
Treasurer
Garrett Rowe is a dedicated advocate for children's education and well-being, bringing a wealth of experience in teaching and directing youth theater programs.
A graduate of Indiana University with a double major in Theatre and Media Advertisement, Garrett has been instrumental in nurturing young talent through his roles at the Black Box Theatre Company and University Players.
His commitment to fostering creativity and providing educational opportunities for children reflects his passion for making a positive impact in their lives.
Cindy Southerland
Carin Weiss
Cindy Southerland
Fundraising Development
Cindy Southerland is a dedicated advocate for children's education and well-being in Central Texas. As a key member of the Back to School Extravaganza team, she has been instrumental in expanding the organization's reach, serving over 300 students annually.
Cindy's commitment to providing essential school supplies and clothing to economically challenged students reflects her passion for making a positive impact in the community. Her efforts continue to inspire and support families across the region.
Back To School Extravaganza Media & Public Relations
An Inside Look
An Inside Look
An Inside Look
Watch our inspiring video showcasing 250 kids shopping for school supplies and clothing, made possible through the generosity of our donors and volunteers. See firsthand how the Back to School Extravaganza works to provide essentials and smiles to students in need across central Texas!
News Coverage
An Inside Look
An Inside Look
News 25 highlighted the incredible impact of the Back to School Extravaganza in a special feature, showcasing how the program serves students in need across central Texas. Their coverage shed light on our mission to provide school supplies and clothing while sharing love and hope with families in our community.
