The Santa Barbara Police Activities League’s (PAL) 23rd annual Putting Kids First event brought together 230 supporters and raised $120,000 April 28 at the Santa Barbara Carriage Museum.
The event raises money to support PAL’s academic and enrichment programming for disadvantaged youth in Santa Barbara. The KKB Foundation and Van Donge Family was the platinum sponsor of the evening.
The fundraiser included a hosted bar, dinner, live and silent auctions, and a brisket cook-off. The Santa Barbara Police Department with cooking by Sgt. Ben Ahrens took home first place, followed by Santa Barbara Fire Department (Capt. Jeremy Denton), California Highway Patrol (Officer Jon Gutierrez), and the Santa Barbara Sheriff Department (Sheriff Bob Lacey).
Officer Adrian Gutierrez was honored for his 22 years of service at the Santa Barbara Police Department in numerous assignments, including patrol officer, beat coordinator – Eastside, school resource officer, crisis negotiations officer, and community liaison officer.
Driven by his personal commitment to the community, Gutierrez has been dedicated and heavily involved with SBPAL, California PAL, and National PAL.
Cmdr. Aaron Baker was given this year’s Hero’s Award in recognition of his commitment, leadership in the face of adversity, and service to PAL and the community. He recently retired from the Santa Barbara Police Department after 28 years.
The Santa Barbara Police Activities League strives to build the bridge between cops, kids, and the community through mentorship, leadership, and academic enrichment programs. PAL, located at the Twelve35 Teen Center, provides teens with holistic programming including academic support and a range of enrichment programs such as fitness classes and equipment, environmental education, and social-emotional and mental wellness referral support.
For more about PAL, visit www.sbpal.org.