5 minute read
Champions of Safety
At the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County, the mission is clear: empower every young person to reach their full potential. But behind every inspiring workshop, activity, mentoring session, and leadership opportunity, there’s a steadfast commitment to one non-negotiable value— safety.
Ensuring the emotional, physical, and procedural safety of thousands of children and teens each year is no small task. It takes a dedicated, skilled, and compassionate team. In this issue, we spotlight three remarkable individuals whose work keeps our youth not just protected—but empowered: Sabrina Cazares, Teresa Logan, and Vince Aguilar.
“Being part of the safety team is more than just a role; it’s a responsibility I take to heart. It means being someone others can trust, creating an environment where every child and team member feels secure, seen, and supported. It’s about staying alert, leading by example, and stepping up when it matters most.”
Sabrina Cazares, a Bakersfield native, former foster youth, and former Club Kid brings over a decade of experience at the Boys & Girls Club. She’s had various roles during her tenure working both directly and indirectly with the Club’s youth. Sabrina now serves as Safety Compliance Officer and sits on the Club’s Safety Committee that includes staff, board members, and volunteers. She has also represented the Club in national settings on the topic of safety and leads the team during periodic safety audits conducted by Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
Sabrina joined the original Safety Committee early on and officially started the Safety Department and is considered a cornerstone of staff training at BGCKC. She has completed trauma-informed training, adding to her credentials the Trauma-Informed Specialist designation.
“To me, safety isn’t just about rules; it’s about care. It’s about making sure everyone can show up, be themselves, and thrive without fear. I’m proud to be part of a team that puts people first and works every day to protect what matters most: our community.”
Her warm presence is felt throughout the Club, where youth and staff often approach her for a quiet chat or a moment of support. “We’re not just building systems—we’re building trust.”
“Safety is not just about physical well-being, it’s about making sure people feel secure, respected, and free from harm, whether it’s emotional, mental, or social. I believe everyone should feel like they are in a place where their safety comes first.”
But for Teresa Logan, safety is not just procedural—it’s deeply personal. “It’s inspiring to work for an organization that puts purpose at the center of everything it does. My favorite part of working at the Club is building real connections with the kids and being someone, they can trust and look up to. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch them grow and know I play a small part in their journey.”
With an educational background in justice, Teresa earned degrees in Criminal Justice and Administration of Justice and brings a unique blend of vigilance and approachability to her role. Teresa has been with the Club for nearly a decade working directly with youth before transitioning to the Safety Department as Safety Compliance Officer.
Having grown up in South-Central Los Angeles raised by a single mother, Teresa learned early that life isn’t always easy, but with the right role models, a child can learn valuable lessons that shape them. Watching her mother struggle taught her the true meaning of resilience, sacrifice, and strength and she carries those lessons with her and applies them to her role on the Safety Team.
“Being on the Safety Team is important to me because it gives me the chance to help create a safe and supportive space for everyone. Being part of this team means I get to work with others to ensure both youth and team members can come to work or join in without worrying, knowing their wellbeing is always a priority.”
Teresa’s commitment to being both protector and mentor makes her a trusted figure among the youth and staff alike.
“I appreciate the trust that team members put on our team and the fact that they can depend on us to give them the answer needed, support or provide them with a solution.”
Vince Aguilar, a certified chef and born in Japan to a career Marine father and pastry chef mother basically zig-zagged his way to the Club’s Safety Team. He was a Club Kid in Clairemont, California before going on to college to study child development and later switching to the culinary arts. After college, Vince found his way to a Club in San Diego working as an Athletic Director. He later moved to Bakersfield and joined BGCKC about four years ago. During his time at the Club, Vince served as Activity Leader, Site Coordinator and Area Program Director before joining the Safety Team as Program Safety Specialist. Vince is also active with the various athletic programs at the Club.
“I am proud to be a part of the Safety team. I like the fact that we get the opportunity to support everyone throughout the organization, in a variety of ways. Knowing that I am a role model for our youths and for our team members is my inspiration,” Vince notes.
A Unified Front
Sabrina, Teresa, and Vince form a dynamic triad—each with a unique specialty, but united in purpose. They meet regularly to refine protocols, evaluate incidents, and ensure that every corner of the organization reflects their shared values of vigilance, empathy, and respect.
Executive Director Zane Smith reflects on their impact:
“They are the reason our kids can focus on learning and growing. Because they know someone is always looking out for them.”
As the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County expands its reach, this trio continues to lead by example—turning safety into a proactive, people-centered mission.
Because when safety is strong, young people can truly shine.
