St. Francis Center extends heartfelt gratitude to the nearly 500 community members who came together for our anniversary block party. The event was filled with live music, children’s activities, delicious food vendors, and countless opportunities to connect in a joyful, welcoming atmosphere.
During the celebration, Executive Director Kate Young addressed the crowd, sharing: “To build this Village over the last 40 years, it has taken thousands of caring people, millions of staff and volunteer hours, love and care, and millions of dollars. It has been an extraordinary undertaking. The list of people who have contributed, each in their own special way, is massive.” All of you made this a day we won’t soon forget, and a true celebration of our shared spirit.
The afternoon’s entertainment showcased a diverse range of cultural traditions and high-energy performances of baileterapia, baile folklorico, Zumba, baile azteca, and mariachi.
A special thank you goes out to the leaders and supporters who gathered for our gratitude ceremony at the future site of the Magical Bridge Pocket Park to honor the donors whose generosity made this inclusive community space possible, including:
- San Mateo County Supervisor Lisa Gauthier
- Alma Pulido, Program Officer, Chan Zuckerberg Initiative
- Ivan Martinez, President of the Board, Sequoia Healthcare District
- Ian Bain, President of the Board, Magical Bridge Foundation
Created in partnership with the Magical Bridge Foundation, the park will provide children, families, and adults of all abilities with an inclusive, sensory-friendly space to connect and play.
As Ivan Martinez, President of the Board of Sequoia Healthcare District, shared: “It is a child having a safe place to run and play. It is families spending time together outside. It is neighbors getting to know one another. It is someone getting some exercise, shooting a basketball, taking a walk, laughing with friends, or simply enjoying a beautiful day in the community they love.
And that is why this is about more than building another park. This is about creating the conditions for our children and families to grow whole and healthy. North Fair Oaks has always been a community that thrives outdoors. Sports, movement, gatherings, celebrations, being out with our families and our neighbors—that is part of our culture. We should make sure our physical environment reflects that.”
We eagerly anticipate the park’s official groundbreaking, expected in early 2027. Swenson Development and Construction will lead the building of this community treasure.
A Special Thank You to Our Event Sponsors
We are deeply grateful to Friends of St. Francis Center and Citizens Business Bank for their generous support in helping make our 40th Anniversary Community Block Party possible.
Friends of St. Francis Center
Citizens Business Bank