Event: Summer Bash Event
Date: July 8, 2023
Location: Christmas Hill Park, Gilroy, CA
Population Served: Current Foster Youth & Non-Minor Dependents (NMDs)
Event Highlights:
On Saturday, July 8, 2023, Child Advocates held its second annual Summer Bash at Christmas Hill Park. With the event hosted right in their backyard, this day was particularly special for the children we serve in South County, and over 15 youth and their Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Volunteers arrived eager for some fun in the sun.
“Although South County might not have the same resources as other areas of Santa Clara County, it’s still important for youth in this region to know what’s available to them and to see what their community can offer,” explained South County CASA Specialist Apolonia Cortez.
The event offered interactive activities for all ages, each tapping into multiple domains of development, and provided a safe space for foster youth to express themselves artistically, try new things, make connections with others and have the freedom to simply be kids. Activities included a bounce house, jump ropes, hula hoops and art stations, and raffle tickets were awarded for participation and used to enter contests for exciting prizes. CASAs and their youths worked together to successfully complete a scavenger hunt, skillfully put together by Child Advocates staff members, and the afternoon ended with group-wide water activities in which no one—not even our very own CEO, Frederick Ferrer—was safe from a splash or two. Guests left with goodie bags filled with books, art supplies, outdoor equipment and plants, but nothing could beat the smiles on their faces.
“I had such a great time at Summer Bash! My favorite part about the event was the painting station and getting to win the scooter and Barbie Dreamhouse prizes. I can’t wait to go to another event with [my CASA],” said one delighted youth.
This day perfectly illustrated the importance of play and offered prime opportunities for CASAs and their youths to create all-important positive childhood experiences. Growing supportive relationships, engaging in physical activity and experiencing nature have all been scientifically proven to help children and adolescents actively combat experienced trauma, and the planning committee ensured these elements were thoughtfully incorporated into this event.
Summer Bash was made possible by the generous support of the Morgan Hill Community Foundation, and we are thankful to Creations by Stina and Sam of Aztlan Smoked Out BBQ for their partnership. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year!
If you have any questions or are interested in sponsoring a youth-related event, please contact our development department at development@childadvocatessv.org.
