By GREG AITKENS
May 1–Just a few weeks ago on April 5, 37 Cambria non-profit groups came together for a Community Fair at the Pinedorado Grounds. The event, which took place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., was clearly a success.
Each organization had a designated booth for interested people to learn more about the services and volunteer opportunities in that specific non-profit, and it was evident how much effort the various organizations put into promoting their missions through posters, photo exhibits, informational brochures, and giveaways that enticed people to visit their booths. One group, Cambria 4-H, even brought a goat and two bunnies that the young 4-H members are raising, much to everyone’s delight.
Many of the group leaders reported that they enjoyed meeting other non-profit leaders at the event. One person described how it took him three hours to get around to meet all the groups participating. Several groups mentioned that they already have signed up new volunteers as a result of the Fair. In all, over 250 people attended the fair.
Attendees were entertained by the local Ballet Folklorico, and local DJ Ponce, who offered background music during the entire program. In addition, the moms and supporters of the dancers prepared delicious Hispanic tamales and tacos—served from the Food Court at the Pinedorado Grounds. Many people commented on the great food—and the great dancers.
The Fair was meticulously planned and organized by a Steering Committee of dedicated volunteers. They include Kitty Connolly from the Friends of the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve; Consuelo Macedo from Native Daughters of the Golden West; Melody Coe from the Cambria Historical Society; Claudia Worthen from Beautify Cambria Association; Dick Clark from the Cambria Community Council; Dave Pierson from the American Legion and Fire Safe Focus Group; Kris Fox from the cambriaca; Gayle Jenkins from Cambria Community Scholarship Foundation; and Greg Aitkens from the Lions Club. A special thanks goes to Jim Rogers from Cambria Anonymous Neighbors for handling all the donations and financial arrangements for the Fair.
On the day of the Fair, several Go To volunteers helped facilitate the setting up and taking down of the canopies, tables, and chairs and included: Tom Trout, Joe Sassaman, John Nixon (all from the Lions Club) and Dave Pierson from the American Legion. Thanks to their leadership, the Fair was well organized; all aspects of the event ran smoothly.
The Steering Committee is planning another Non-profit Community Fair next year—so that many more can come to know what our many Non-profit organizations are doing to serve our community. Thank You to everyone who attended!
