A Daughter’s Dream, A Mother’s Reality
On August 3, 2024, the Tri-City Empowerment Council held its annual Ethosha Lynn Back to School Bash. This year, we celebrated the event’s 10-year anniversary. As we mark this milestone, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on the incredible story that brought this community-focused event to life. Take a journey with us back to where it all began to see how an event rooted in a personal and inspiring story has become a tradition in our community.
Join us as we share a brief version of the heartfelt history behind this incredible initiative, as told by Viola Holman and captured in words by Rogers Wardy. While you're reading, enjoy some of the memories captured at this year’s event!
The Ethosha Lynn Back to School Bash isn’t just an event… it’s a legacy.
What was once a daughter’s dream was made a mother’s reality. Each year, the Cuero Park Pavilion has been the central hub for the Ethosha Lynn Back To School Bash. For 10 years, Viola Holman, a mother, foster parent, family advocate and community leader, has brought together various agencies, organizations and leaders to support her daughter’s vision.
Ethosha Lynn, a personable, fun and witty young lady spent every summer, organizing the Tour of South Texas. The tour introduced children to a world outside of their own, from Moody Gardens Rainforest Pyramid in Galveston to the Jazz Festival in San Antonio. The youth gained a newfound appreciation for what was possible.
Additionally, built around Cuero’s annual Christmas in the Park, the Foster Parent Community was brought together for a Holiday Celebration. Families would gather for a tour of the Chisholm Trail Museum, enjoying a time of fun and excitement. The evening would culminate with a ride through the park and hot chocolate before heading home.
As sponsorship for these events continued to grow, so did their hearts for the community. Ethosha and Viola served the Cuero community through their work in the school system and by providing an open door to those seeking help finding needed resources. In 2011, while watching her mother work from their home office, Ethosha told her mother that she should start a non-profit. Within a few hours, the Tri-City Empowerment Council was born! Their mission, to provide the tools and resources needed in education, skill development and opportunities.
Ethosha knew there was more work to do. While sitting at home going over the list of school supplies, Ethosha expressed to her mother the hope that one day, her daddy would win the lottery. For Ethosha, her sights were never on fame or fortune. Her heart was for the children. She dreamed of using the lottery money to purchase an 18-wheeler flatbed trailer and filling it with backpacks and school supplies. She imagined herself sitting on the back in the H-E-B parking lot, legs swinging, as she passed supplies out to every child. Regardless of their mental, physical or socioeconomic status, she declared that no child would be overlooked.
At just 41 years old, Ethosha died of kidney failure and never saw her dream become a reality. Overwhelmed by the grief and loss of her miracle baby, Viola sought guidance and comfort the only way she knew, she prayed. During a time when many would withdraw, Viola recalled her daughter’s dream and got dressed. Armed with a God-directed purpose and a handful of letters, she went out and shared Ethosha's story. Thirteen-thousand dollars later and with volunteer support, the Back To School Bash came to life. Despite roadblocks, resistance and ridicule, she has continued to persevere. Ethosha’s daddy may not have won the lottery, but her dream and legacy have continued to bring awareness of the needs of children and families to the forefront of the community.
Mrs. Holman would like to give a special thank you to Mrs. Drosto Montgomery and all the volunteers who have dedicated their gifts, time and talents to making this celebration a success over the past years. She looks forward to where we are going in this next season.
This year we not only celebrate the 10 year anniversary of this event, but we honor the memory of Ethosha Lynn as well as the strength and resilience of those who came together to keep her vision alive. Every single backpack, smile, and memorable moment captured at the Ethosha Lynn Back to School Bash becomes woven into Ethosha’s legacy and dream. We extended our thanks to everyone who has supported this event over the years! Thank you for joining us on this inspiring journey.
