Community service shone brightly in Palmdale last Thursday as volunteers gathered for the Antelope Valley Mall’s “Centennial Cares” event. Organized by the AV Mall and supported by the Kiwanis Club of Palmdale West, the event was a resounding success, focusing on supporting local foster children.
A Community United
Among the prominent figures attending the event were Greg Searcy, AV Mall Property Facilities Manager; Debby Clinkenbeard, AV Mall Property Marketing Manager; Michelle Penez, Assistant Regional Administrator at the Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS); Caridad Duar, Intermediate Typist Clerk at DCFS; Breela Ballum, Miss Palmdale 2023; and our very own Stacy Bryant, President of the Kiwanis Club of Palmdale West.
The “Centennial Cares” initiative, spearheaded by Centennial—a real estate investment firm managing AV Mall since November 2022—aims to give back to the community. Thursday’s event saw 30 dedicated volunteers painting and packing duffle bags filled with essential supplies for foster children in Palmdale.
Heartfelt Contributions
Debby Clinkenbeard, who led the event, emphasized the importance of community support: “It’s always our pleasure to give back to the community that has supported us for over 30 years. It’s a vital part of our responsibility and where our hearts are as people.”
Miss Palmdale, Breela Ballum, shared her enthusiasm: “I love to help serve the community, and giving duffle bags with supplies and taking the time to personalize them is a great way to touch many children’s lives.”
The event saw active participation from Key Club students of SOAR High School, who joined Kiwanis Club volunteers in preparing the duffle bags. These bags, brimming with school supplies, basic clothing, and hygiene products, will provide much-needed support to foster children in the area.
Addressing Vital Needs
Michelle Penez from DCFS highlighted the ongoing need for essential items for foster children, including school supplies, clothing, and hygiene products like baby wipes, toothbrushes, and shampoo. She gratefully received the donations, which will significantly aid the 1,400+ foster children in Palmdale, including older youth aged 18 to 21.
How You Can Help
The spirit of giving doesn’t end with this event. Community members are encouraged to continue supporting local foster children by donating essential items. Those interested can reach out to Michelle Penez at penezma@dcfs.lacounty.gov or call 661-581-6157 for more information on how to contribute.
A Bright Future Ahead
The Kiwanis Club of Palmdale West is proud to have been part of such a meaningful initiative and looks forward to future collaborations that support and uplift our community. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of foster children in Palmdale.
For more updates on our activities and how you can get involved, stay tuned to our website and social media channels.
Kiwanis Club of Palmdale West
Serving the Children of the World
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