RECOGNIZING THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF KERN COUNTY

On 2026-06-04, Representative David G. Valadao (R-CA-22) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF KERN COUNTY" in the House.

RECOGNIZING THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF KERN COUNTY

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 95 (Thursday, June 4, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 95 (Thursday, June 4, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E527-E528] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF KERN COUNTY ______ HON. DAVID G. VALADAO of california in the house of representatives Thursday, June 4, 2026 Mr. VALADAO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Boys & Girls Club of Kern County on its 60th anniversary. Since its founding, the organization has served as a pillar of our community, empowering young people across Kern County through its commitment to integrity, respect, and excellence. In 1966, the club began in a modest home, which was converted into an after-school recreation space where boys could play sports, enjoy games, and participate in staff-led community field trips. As interest grew, so did the need for expanded facilities, resources, and programming to support local youth. From the very beginning, the Kern County community stepped up to ensure the club had the support necessary to continue its mission. Thanks to continued investment from the community, the Board of Directors purchased a church on Monterey Street that became a true ``home away from home'' for the many boys. Club leaders soon recognized that many members were bringing their younger sisters along, leading the organization to officially expand its program to welcome girls. As membership continued to grow, board member Jack Armstrong purchased a nearby property with the vision of creating a modern Boys & Girls Club that could serve all youth in the community. Over the past 60 years, the Boys & Girls Club of Kern County has built strong partnerships with organizations across the region, including local school districts, the Boy Scouts, and countless community groups. These collaborations have opened doors for young people by providing mentorship, academic support, recreational opportunities, and a place where our community's youth can grow and thrive. What began as a single location has grown into 75 sites serving more than 17,000 children and teens across Kern County. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in congratulating the Boys & Girls Club of Kern County on this remarkable milestone and in thanking the organization for sixty years of dedicated service to the young people of the Central Valley. Its impact on our communities and on the lives of thousands of children and families cannot be overstated. [[Page E528]] ____________________