Genova Burns Launches Back-to-School Backpack Drive Through Read Across Newark

As students enjoy the start of summer vacation, Genova Burns LLC is already looking ahead to the next school year through the launch of a Back-to-School Backpack Drive benefiting students at the Speedway School in Newark.
The initiative will be led by Alisia LoSardo, Esq., Associate, at Genova Burns LLC, who is assuming leadership of the firm’s Read Across Newark: Turning Pages into Possibilities program. Building on the success of the literacy initiative, the firm’s summer focus will shift toward ensuring students begin the school year equipped with one of the most basic educational necessities: a backpack of their own.

Through the drive, Genova Burns is seeking donations of new backpacks for students attending Speedway Avenue School through the Read Across Newark program. The goal is simple: collect as many backpacks as possible before the start of the new school year and help ease the burden many families face during back-to-school season.
“While summer should be a time for kids to relax and recharge, many parents are already worrying about the costs that come with the start of a new school year,” said LoSardo. “We know that times are challenging for many families. A backpack may seem like a small thing, but it can make a meaningful difference for a student walking into school on the first day feeling prepared and confident.”

The backpack drive reflects the continued evolution of Read Across Newark, which was established to support students and schools throughout Newark through literacy, educational resources, and community engagement. While the program’s foundation remains rooted in promoting reading and educational opportunity, the initiative has expanded to address other practical needs that directly impact student success.

“Alisia has embraced this initiative with tremendous enthusiasm and compassion,” said Jennifer Borek, Esq., Managing Partner of Genova Burns. “Read Across Newark is about creating opportunities for students to succeed, whether through books, school supplies, or community support. We are excited to see the program continue to grow under her leadership.”

The firm encourages clients, colleagues, friends, and community members to participate in the drive by donating new backpacks throughout the summer. Backpacks can be brought to the firm’s Newark or Jersey City offices, or ordered directly through Amazon, here.
“We recognize that everyone is feeling the impact of rising costs,” LoSardo added. “Not everyone can make a large contribution, but when a community comes together, small acts of generosity add up quickly. If we can help students start the school year with one less thing to worry about, that’s a goal worth pursuing.”

At Genova Burns, community engagement remains a core part of the firm’s culture. Through initiatives like Read Across Newark, the firm continues its commitment to supporting education, strengthening communities, and helping create opportunities for the next generation of leaders.

About Read Across Newark

Read Across Newark: Turning Pages Into Possibilities is a community initiative supported by Genova Burns LLC that promotes literacy, educational access, and student success throughout Newark’s schools. Through book drives, school supply collections, volunteer efforts, and community partnerships, the program seeks to provide meaningful resources that help students thrive both inside and outside the classroom.