Celebrating Two Decades of Dedication: A Tribute to an

It is not every day that we have the privilege of acknowledging a career that has spanned over two decades, especially one that has touched so many lives in profound ways. Here we are recognizing a truly remarkable individual, Natalie Martinez, whose commitment to the community has not only shaped the future of so many students and their families but has also left an indelible mark on the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County where she has served for the past 20 years.

Natalie’s journey actually began in a pre-school classroom, where one of her students just happened to be the daughter of BGCKC’s Executive Director, Zane Smith. Zane observed how well Natalie worked with young children and knew he needed to recruit her for the Boys & Girls Club. Her passion in working with and her ability to manage these preschoolers immediately stood out.

Natalie started her BGCKC career in the Art Room helping with arts and crafts just three days a week. Soon after, Natalie moved into the role of Area Program Director and Facilities Manager taking on 16 of the [then] 32 club locations. Natalie remained in variations of that role for the following 10 years. In Natalie’s second decade with the Club, she became a Nutrition Education and Obesity Prevention educator, building and managing 14 learning gardens at BCSD locations to help support healthy eating habits for Kern County youth.

Over the years as Natalie’s role evolved, she took on more responsibilities within the organization. With each transition, she demonstrated an unparalleled ability to adapt, grow, and thrive. As she took on leadership roles, she continued to infuse every project with the same enthusiasm and commitment that initially defined her approach to teaching. Her work went beyond simply imparting knowledge; it was about instilling values of resilience, self-discipline, and community.

Natalie now serves as the Club’s Director of Community Outreach and Volunteerism where she oversees all volunteer activities as well as coordinates numerous community events. In this role, Natalie regularly coordinates with volunteer groups to help engage the community with the Club, but probably the most significant responsibility she has is leading a team of over 200 volunteers at the Club’s annual fundraising event, Artfest.

As one can imagine, coordinating and managing over 200 people leading up to and during an event is no small task.

In Natalie’s current role she also organizes and coordinates many community events, helping to promote the Club and its services to the community. In addition, Natalie also organizes distributions of much needed household items to families throughout Kern County. These items are donated by local firms and suppliers of which Natalie has forged important partnerships. These efforts truly go over and beyond the traditional services of a Boys & Girls Club but are nevertheless essential for our community. “Our agency is about making things happen and providing life-changing help to support our community and its youth,” Natalie stated.

Through her involvement in various positions within the organization, Natalie has had a direct hand in shaping the culture of the youth development program. Her ability to connect with both students and colleagues alike has fostered an environment of trust and collaboration, making the organization a welcoming space for all who seek guidance and support. Many of the young people who have come through the program have gone on to achieve great things, thanks in no small part to the direct and indirect efforts from Natalie. But the Club has also had an impact on Natalie, “the Club has given me a sense of stability and family. I have undergone some monumental life-changing experiences during my 20 years at BGCKC. It is not just a job for me, but a lifestyle.”

As we look back on her two-decade journey, it is clear that Natalie’s influence extends far beyond the classroom and the Club. Her legacy is one of compassion, perseverance, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every young person. She has been a mentor, role model, and friend to so many, and her work has undoubtedly changed the course of many lives for the better.

On behalf of everyone whose life has been touched by Natalie, we extend our deepest gratitude. It is rare to find someone who has dedicated so much to the growth and development of others, and we are fortunate to have had Natalie with us for these past 20 years. Her impact will continue to resonate for generations to come, and we look forward to the many more lives she will continue to inspire in the years ahead.

Thank you, Natalie, for everything. You are a true pillar of our community.