Foster youth learn sports and connect with mentors at sports faire

Children and Family Services (CFS) hosted the 14^th Annual Sports Faire June 17 providing San Bernardino County foster and probation youth ages 11-18 the opportunity to learn the fundamental skills of team sports, sportsmanship and how to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

CFS Director Jeany Zepeda encouraged the youth at opening ceremonies to, “Be open to making new connections with other youth who have the same interests as you – that leap may lead to lifelong friendships.” CFS was honored to have Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. address this year’s event participants and mentor the youth in the baseball clinic.

The Sports Faire was held at Indian Springs High School in San Bernardino. Former foster youth, Kevon Lee, who is now a motivational speaker and activist for at-risk youth set the tone for the day. Inland Empire Scout Troop 720 performed the flag ceremony and former foster youth, Antoine Ortega, played the Star-Spangled Banner on electric guitar.

Youth had the opportunity to participate in one of several sports clinics including: basketball, football, volleyball, tennis, cheer and dance, soccer, and softball. The seven-hour day also incorporated free training for resource (formerly known as foster) and kinship caregivers, including a presentation by Stop the Void entitled, “Fentanyl Changes Everything,” and a presentation by Kasey, an individual who was raised in a household that adopted many foster youths. Kasey’s presentation, “A.C.C.E.P.T. Their S.O.U.L – Caring for LGBTQ+ Youth,” provided insight into the different services and supports LGBTQ+ youth may need. Childcare was provided for resource and kinship caregivers who attended trainings.

Additionally, the LifeStream Blood Mobile was available to take lifesaving blood donations for local hospitals.

CFS thanks the nonprofit, Shoes That Fit, whose generosity provided all 170 registered youth who attended the Sports Faire to receive a free pair of tennis shoes, In-N-Out Burger for providing lunch, San Bernardino City Unified School District for use of the campus and playing fields, Children’s Fund for their ongoing sponsorship and support of this event. and all of the volunteers who made the day possible.

Additional County Update News – June 23, 2023