Letter from the Director of Development

When I was asked to chair the upscale, tasteful, and completely moldable fundraiser that is the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County’s ‘Farm to Table(aux)’, my first thought was, “Gosh, they really think I’d be a good fit for this?”

Don’t get me wrong, I was smitten with the idea, and I’m no stranger to the Clubs, not to mention I adore all forms of art and this specific program has always entranced me. But, if you’ve never attended ‘Artfest’ or ‘Farm to Table(aux)’ benefiting BGCKC, then you’ve never been transported out of Bakersfield while still firmly planted in the valley.

The event guest list grows organically each year as we keep it intimate enough so we may interact with all guests, but also sizable to accommodate a few new faces. This year, we were able to host around 650 of our donors, colleagues, and esteemed partners in service in support of 70 locations and various programs right here in Kern County. With Pablo Picasso as our artistof-inspiration this year, our talented team knocked out a Spanish-French fusion style in food, drinks, and entertainment. If you don’t know, Picasso was born in Spain but spent most of his adult life in France.

I am nothing if not a glorified point-of-contact for the dedicated committee members of whom I served with this year, ranging from team members (employees), board members, Club management, outside volunteers, donors, and liaison for major businesses, all coming together to make the event unforgettable for guests. With goals set, we began planning in February for our October 2023 event, and we were constantly adapting to new ideas to create a ‘WOW!’ factor that I believe we achieved.

From a hand-passed champagne wall upon check-in, to the fireworks display and SWAG bags at the close of the event, we took the idea of entertaining our guests and made it larger than life. The artworks provided by local artists and the children of the Clubs were nothing short of true masterpieces, and the excitement we get to share in when we tell a child at what amount their art piece sold for is truly a priceless experience. At one point during the event, I was allowed on stage to thank some of our generous sponsors, and what a breathtaking experience it was to stare out into the crowd and see many familiar faces, all gathered in the spirit of giving and supporting children in Kern County

I was floored at the generosity of all who attended the event. A part of my heart will always belong to the Clubs and families that we serve, so witnessing others give freely to our community was touching. It makes such a difference in one’s perception of humanity, in times where the future can seem unpredictable. If you have contributed to BGCKC, I can say with certainty that you are forging a path of reliability in a child’s life.

I am proud to serve the board, committee(s), and Clubs any way I can, and I hope that you feel the same inclination to get involved in something that sets fire to your soul in the best way possible, as I have.

MacKenzie Boone Board Vice-President

In a small corner of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County, amidst the laughter and play, there’s a shining star named Alayah, a spirited young girl who has become an inspiring figure, not only for her peers but for the entire community.

Alayah has been attending the Suburu Club location at her school since kindergarten. As an energized six-year-old, she enjoys the activities that happen on the playground where she can run, dance, sing and play games using her imagination.

From the moment, Alayah stepped through the doors, she was greeted with open arms, and it wasn’t long before she became an integral part of the Club’s vibrant community. Her favorite Club team member, Charlotte Smith, connects with Alayah through music and song. Frequently, there are impromptu dance parties to the music from the Movie “Rio” or “Frozen” over breakfast and while waiting for activities to begin. According to Charlotte, “Alayah loves her music and it’s a great way to show her my appreciation for her good behavior and being kind to others. All I have to do is sing “Get it…Get it…Get it Girl” from Disney’s animated movie, “Rio” and her shoulders start to move to the rhythm. Next thing you know, it’s a full-out dance party and it’s contagious with other friends joining in. I look forward to having Alayah in my group every day because she has such a big personality and enthusiasm for my activities.”

Alayah’s infectious spirit has a way of breaking down barriers. Her radiant smile and boundless enthusiasm have touched the hearts of both children and adults alike. The Club is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment for children of all backgrounds and this dedication to inclusivity had not only enriched Alayah’s life but has also broadened the horizons of those around her.

Alayah’s Mom says she’s friendly to everyone and she’s always personality-plus. At home, when she’s not dancing to everything Disney, Alayah is busy with her sisters Maliah and Scarlett taking care of their two dogs and their goldfish, as well as having adventures with her collection of Barbies. She loves making up her own choreography and she knows all the lyrics to “We Don’t Talk About Bruno.” Her favorite show is, ”A is for Adley” which is a series of videos promoting education, adventure and friendship starring a rambunctious eight-year-old.

Kern County watch out! This is one six-year-old club member who is singing and dancing her way to a bright future. We can’t wait to find out what the future holds for the Amazing Alaya!

Active 20-30 Club of Bakersfield

Vince Aguilar

Justin & April Ahart

Paul Andre

Scott Andrews

Timothy & Caitlin Ashlock

Ariel & Abby Auffant

Alan Avery

Alex M. Balfour

Larry & Kay Bardin

Adam Belter

Cathy Bennett

Aimee Blaine

MacKenzie Boone

Greg & Rose Broida

John & Jean Browning

Charles & Theresa Bush

Juan & Sabrina Cazares

Gary & Donna Cross

Mickey & Alex Cushine

Mike & Maggie Cushine

Matt Damian

Chelsea Dow

Ken & Marjorie Dow

Karla Espinoza

Mark & Becky Evans

Alexandria Fabbro

Melissa Fortune & Bruce Beretta

Christine Frazier

Fanny Gama

Justin & Megan Garant

Monica Gonzales

Renee Goodwin

Robert & Jerry Haner

Matthew & Shelly Hewett

Barry Hill

Cynthia Huggins

Edgar Jacobs

Larry Koman

Allan Krauter & Anna Agenjo

Bernie & Lynn LeBeau

Ryan & Frances Lewis

Andrew Lopez

Quon & Marivic Louey

Christopher Lowe

Zachary Martindale

Erlinda Martinez

Natalie Martinez

Renee Massey

Janice Meek

Karinna Mendoza

Peggy Miller

Ruth Miranda

Chris & Jovan Molina

Alex & Kristin Monsibais

Jonathan & Mary Anne Mueller

Shannon Ogilvie

Dale Oprandy

Randy & Mary Richardson

Bruce Saathoff & Tony Cervantes

Saber Insurance Agency

Darin Schwicker

Tim & Christy Simmons

John & Christina Sistrunk

Paul Skarphol

Zane & Amy Smith

Mark Steele

Bryce & Ashlyn Sterling

Keith Stonebraker

Carol Sugimori

Linda Sullenger

Robert Tafoya & Sandra Serrano

Josh & Susan Wall

Deborah Wood