August 5, 2026 – Volunteers from ADM’s Decatur operations helped thousands of local students prepare for the new school year during the Decatur Family YMCA’s annual Backpack Attack on Aug. 1.
Working alongside community partners, ADM employees helped distribute 3,000 backpacks filled with school supplies and classroom essentials to children and families across the Decatur area. The event is designed to help ease the financial burden of back-to-school shopping while ensuring students begin the school year prepared.
“Volunteering at Backpack Attack was an opportunity to invest in the next generation and strengthen our community where we live and work,” said Karley Dixon, a research scientist with ADM’s Carbohydrate Solutions division. “I believe we are creating a positive experience for local families while supporting educational success for thousands of students.”
During the event, the Decatur Family YMCA recognized ADM Cares as its Community Partner of the Year, honoring the company’s longtime support of the Backpack Attack program.
“ADM’s commitment to this event has helped it grow year after year, and we’re so grateful to have ADM Cares alongside us in serving children and families throughout our community,” said Shyler Kraus, director of development for the Decatur Family YMCA.
Backpack Attack has become an annual community tradition, bringing together volunteers, businesses and nonprofit organizations to help local students start the school year with the supplies they need to succeed.
