The Heart Behind the Back to School Extravaganza

"Together,

we can change

the world!"

-John W. Southerland

Our Mission

Equipping Students. Impacting Souls. Inspiring Kindness.

Our mission is to provide essential school clothes and supplies for children across Central Texas, meeting both practical and spiritual needs with compassion and care. As we serve families, we also share the life-changing message of salvation through Jesus Christ—believing that true transformation begins in the heart. Every backpack, every pair of shoes, every smile is an opportunity to show love, restore dignity, and ignite a spirit of generosity in the lives of children and their parents. We don’t just meet needs—we inspire futures filled with hope.

Our Vision

A Culture of Generosity that Transforms Generations

We envision a future where every child, regardless of their circumstances, starts school equipped and encouraged. Our vision is to build a culture that unites compassionate individuals, generous companies, and faithful volunteers who believe in investing in children’s lives. As we grow, we see today’s students becoming tomorrow’s givers—empowered by the help they once received to pay it forward. Through school supply access, community support, and faith-filled purpose, we’re shaping a cycle of hope that will ripple through generations.

Three young girls with Back to School Extravaganza Shirts

How It All Began: A Calling Turned into a Community Mission

In 2014, John Wayne and Bristi Southerland answered a divine call to help children in need. What began with 12 students receiving school supplies and clothing has grown into a powerful nonprofit movement supporting over 300 children each year—now approaching 2,000 total lives impacted. Guided by their faith, the Southerlands built the Back to School Extravaganza to not only equip students for academic success but to inspire hope and a spirit of giving across Central Texas. Today, every backpack given is a reminder that someone believes in their future.

Meet the Founders Behind the Mission

John Wayne and Bristi Southerland turned a heartfelt vision into a thriving community outreach program. Rooted in faith, their journey began with helping a few children—and has blossomed into a transformative mission empowering thousands. Get to know the passionate leaders and board members who dedicate their time, talents, and hearts to making Back to School Extravaganza a source of support, joy, and opportunity for families across the region.

Bristi and John Wayne Southerland From Back to School Extravaganza

OUR 2025 GOAL →

Access to school supplies and resources is essential for a child’s confidence, engagement, and success in education. Many underserved students start the school year without basic essentials, creating barriers to learning and self-esteem. By providing these tools, we empower children to focus on their education, dream bigger, and build a brighter future.

RAISE

$100,000

for 1,000 students

Make a Difference Today — Ways you can Support

Sponsorship Opportunities

Corporate or individual sponsorships available

SPONSOR DETAILS →

Sign up to Volunteer

Lend your time through hands-on community service

VOLUNTEER →

Spread the Word

Social media, word-of-mouth, and engagement

SHARE NOW →

Attend Our Events

Have fun while making a meaningful impact

SEE EVENTS →

Our Board of Directors: Passionate Advocates for Students

Get to know the passionate leaders guiding the mission of the Back to School Extravaganza. Each board member brings unique expertise, heartfelt dedication, and a shared vision to serve students across Central Texas. Together, they provide strategic direction, community connection, and unwavering support to help expand our impact and inspire the next generation. Learn more about the individuals driving this life-changing work.

John Wayne Southerland
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.

CONNECT WITH JOHN WAYNE →
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.

CONNECT WITH DOMINIC →
Trisha Hendrickson
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.

CONNECT WITH TRISHA →
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.

CONNECT WITH CARIN →
Garrett Rowe
Treasurer
Garrett Rowe is an independent financial advisor and a partner for A Sling and A Stone, a Registered Investment Advisory firm committed to helping clients achieve financial clarity and confidence. A proud graduate of Texas A&M University, Garrett Rowe earned a degree in Finance in December 2013 and has since dedicated his career to providing thoughtful, personalized financial guidance. Deeply invested in community service, Garrett Rowe is passionate about supporting youth and civic engagement in Central Texas. He is an active member of the Rotary Club and serves on several local nonprofit boards. In addition to his role on the Back to School Extravaganza board, he is the Vice President for the Boys and Girls Club of the Highland Lakes and also serves on the Board for the Friends of the Library in Burnet, TX. Garrett Rowe brings both professional insight and a heart for service to every endeavor, striving to make a meaningful impact both financially and personally in the lives of those he serves. 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.

CONNECT WITH GARRETT →

An Inside Look

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!

Watch Now

Shining a Light on Our Mission

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.