At first glance, it appeared to be a standard back-to-school drive-through giveaway: vehicles lined up as volunteers handed out backpacks filled with pencils, notebooks, and rulers. But then local hero Lane Harper took the mic!
Harper, a Birmingham, Alabama, police officer and the Executive Director of the Lane Harper Power of Life Foundation, didn’t just pass out school supplies. He sang. Loudly. With enthusiasm. With joy. And apparently, with enough energy to make every child and adult alike smile.
Volunteer Gwen Taylor captured the moment back on July 25th of last year. Harper, in a blue shirt and white shorts, was in his element, dancing along to the music, chatting with families, and making sure every child left with a backpack brimming with essentials for the school year. According to Taylor, the event isn’t just about supplies. “The reaction from families is incredibly moving. Parents and kids arrive smiling and dancing, and the expressions of gratitude make it all worthwhile,” she said.
The Power of Life Foundation hosts these events twice a year, providing students with a range of essentials, including binders, pens, tissues, and face masks. Some events even include small food items to help families manage their day-to-day needs. All of it is funded by local businesses, city councils, public safety partners, and generous community members.
Harper’s impact goes beyond backpacks. Representative Terri Sewell recently honored him in a letter shared with The Nerd Stash, calling him a “pillar of strength and hope” for the community. She highlighted his leadership in law enforcement and his dedication to supporting vulnerable residents through his foundation. The letter praises Harper for providing warm coats, holiday meals, and countless other resources, emphasizing that Alabama’s 7th District is stronger because of his work.
It’s easy to see why Harper inspires such admiration. Volunteer Taylor calls him a “human angel” and describes the events as almost magical: “He can turn a few trucks, tables, and tents into a seamless, impactful experience.” And for Harper, the joy of giving back seems contagious. Whether he’s mentoring fellow officers or belting out tunes at a backpack drive, he brings a rare mix of dedication and levity to every corner of his community.
By the end of the day, kids were walking away with supplies. More importantly, smiles that stretched ear to ear. Harper’s infectious energy has made this back-to-school season more than just a routine distribution. In Birmingham, it’s now officially a celebration.
