Amid breathtaking views of the Santa Maria Valley and under beautiful skies, Santa Maria Valley community members – and even those from beyond the Valley – came out to support Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast at their 40th Annual Spring Fundraiser and Auction on April 15 at Dean Texeira’s CMT Ranch in Orcutt.  

The Starry Night fundraiser for Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast was held April 15 at CMT Ranch in Orcutt. (Courtesy of Namu for Boys and Girls Clubs of MCC)

Almost 200 people gathered for a Starry, Starry Night filled with a plethora of silent auction items, a hosted cocktail bar, delicious food provided by Testa Catering, exciting live auction led by celebrity auctioneer Todd Ventura, and music and dancing arranged by Jay Turner. Reflecting the theme, stars, candles, sparkly items, and references to Van Gogh’s famous painting were seen everywhere.  

County Supervisor Steve Lavagnino and his wife were present along with Hancock College President Kevin Walthers. Table sponsors included Allan Hancock College, American Riviera Bank, Dignity Health, Mechanics Bank, Moats Laser and Skincare, Pacific Premiere Bank, Red Dog Management, Rotary of Santa Maria, and Sesloc Bank. Long-time supporters like Greg and Donna France – who served on the event committee – Brooks and Katie Wise, and Dottie Lyons were among board members Dan Lillard and his wife Codi–who were both on the event committee–Gene & Sue Runkle, who traveled to support the event from their home in Paso Robles, as well as other movers and shakers in the region.  

The event featured numerous references to Van Gogh’s infamous Starry Night painting, as shown in the background here. (Courtesy of Namu for Boys and Girls Clubs of MCC)

The event raised over $125,000 to support the regular programs provided by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast. The organization provides high-quality after school care, mentorship, and a safe and healthy environment for kids when not in school or at home.  

Attendees at the Starry Night fundraiser benefiting Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast enjoyed food, drinks, dancing and more. (Courtesy of Namu for Boys and Girls Clubs of MCC)

For information on the next events hosted by the organization, visit www.centralcoastkids.org or contact Kelly Brickey, events manager, at kelly.brickey@centralcoastkids.org or call 805-354-7163.  

About Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast:

Founded in 1966, Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast have been helping kids aged 6–18 create great futures. Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast provides after-school tutoring, mentoring, and access to healthy activities. Located on the Central Coast of California in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, the organization has 23 club sites in Atascadero, Creston, Guadalupe, Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo, Santa Maria and Shandon. For more information about Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast, please call Kelly White O’Neill at (805) 354-7433, email Kelly.whiteoneill@centralcoastkids.org or visit centralcoastkids.org.