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City from Below

Hey There

Discover Zachery's story and learn how our organization,

Backpacks of Hope, was founded.

Zachery's Story

Zachery was just 21 when he tragically lost his life in an accidental drowning. He had an unwavering love for others and a deep faith in God, which became even more apparent after his passing. 

 

"As a mother, I constantly felt the need to protect him. He struggled with an impulsive behavior, making it difficult to keep him grounded. About a year before his death, he chose to spend time with the homeless in Fort Wayne, sharing meals and sleeping alongside them while forming meaningful friendships. Each day, he would share stories about those in need and brainstorm ways to provide them with food and clothing. Though I worried for his safety, he was determined to bring love, hope, and faith to the homeless community. After his death, we were overwhelmed by the outpouring of stories from people whose lives he had touched and how he had introduced them to God.

As we prepared for Zachery's funeral, we had no idea what to expect in the coming days. We were still in shock and heartbroken over the loss of our vibrant, loving son. He was so full of life, love and joy.

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When the viewing began, a steady stream of people arrived, each sharing stories of how Zachery had made a difference in their lives. The community of those in need saw him as one of their own, never revealing otherwise. We heard countless accounts of "he listened to me", "he did not judge me", "he was my friend". I wish I could share every story we've received, from those he comforted in the hospital, to two young men from a gang who said Zachery was trying to bring God into their lives. One young man from the gang remarked that they thought they were protecting him, but he was actually saving them. They even pulled back their shirts and showed us tattoos they had gotten of crosses with his name inscribed beside them. I encouraged them to continue Zachery's legacy by leaving the gang behind and embracing a new life filled with faith and hope.

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Over a thousand people attended his viewing and funeral, and as a family, we felt immense pride. Zachery was so humble; he likely had no idea of the beautiful impact he was making. He was simply being himself, and in that moment, we realized we had to carry on his mission of love.

 

The second part of Zachery's story is that he faced his own struggles. Life was not always easy for him due to his impulsive disorder. Our message to everyone reading this is that no matter who you are or what challenges you face, you can make a difference in this world."

Over a 1000 people came through his viewing and funeral.  As a family there are no words for the pride we felt.  Zachery was so humble. I am sure he had no idea the beautiful things he was doing.  He was just being Zach.  At that point we knew we had to continue his journey of love.  

The second part of Zachery's mission or story is he had his own struggles.  With his impulsive disorder life wasn't always easy for him.  He had his troubles and struggles.  Our message to everyone reading this is that it doesn't matter who you are or what you have, you can make a difference in this world."

-Shelley Septer, mother of  Zachery​

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The Creation of Backpacks of Hope

The Rescue Mission of Fort Wayne reached out to share the significant impact Zachery had at the mission, describing him as an additional counselor. We inquired about the possibility of giving back by assembling backpacks to distribute before Christmas in December 2011, the year Zachery passed away. They welcomed us into their community, and we assembled around 50 backpacks filled with winter essentials, along with coats and food. To our surprise, over 200 people showed up, revealing the high demand for assistance at the mission.

In March 2012, The Rescue Mission honored Zachery by allowing us to continue the backpack project in his name as an annual event.

 

"Zachery's younger siblings, Allie and Jacob, and I came together as a family to name it "Backpacks of Hope" in memory of John Zachery Septer. Zachery was the kind of kid who wanted everyone to feel loved and hopeful, often reminding us to "Trust in the Lord with all your heart" during tough times."

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-Shelley Septer, mother of  Zachery

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