From the desk of Executive Director Yolanda Randles

August 2023 Edition

The Back to School Health Fair is a signature event of the West Fresno Family Resource Center, and it’s one of that I enjoy to the fullest. For 21 years, we have been hosting this event, helping students to get ready for the upcoming school year by gifting free backpacks, school supplies, haircuts, clothing and shoes. It’s such a joy to see the smiling faces on students when they receive the supplies and resources they need for school. During this time last year, I was recovering from breast cancer surgery. I wanted to be part of this annual event last year. I wanted to spend the day there - but my strength would only allow me to attend for a short period of time.

This year’s event was especially meaningful as we partnered with CalViva Health and the Fresno Grizzlies and we were able to give out even more supplies, clothes and other information. It really was a great day for Fresno.

But what made the day even more memorable for me is that my staff honored me with a plaque and flowers, showing their appreciation and admiration for my strength and leadership. It is clear that the West Fresno Family Resource Center’s success is due to the hard work and caring nature of my staff.

They always go above and beyond to make a positive impact on the lives of others. At the event, they surely made an impression on me. I was surprised. I was overcome with emotion. I felt the love, the care, the kindness. I know it takes so much time and effort to make the back-to-school event a success. Through all their busy-ness, they took the time to remember me. That means so much. It’s so heartwarming to work with such a caring, dedicated staff. This cancer journey has been a struggle, but I can take comfort in knowing that I have a team of caring individuals who support me every step of the way. I know I’ve said it before, but I have the best staff in the world.

‘We are raising money for a great cause’

Professional Golfer Tony Smith and his team took home the top place prize last year at the first Sweet Potato Scramble Golf tournament sponsored by the West Fresno Family Resource Center.

Smith is challenging other golfers to participate this year, but he has a warning.

“We are definitely going to win again,’’ Smith said of his team. “The defending champs will be back. I’ll just put that out there.’’

The tournament will be held September 23, 2023, at the Riverside Golf Course, 7492 N. Riverside Dr. Fresno, Ca 93722. Fees are $150 for individuals and $600 for foursomes. To register or for more information, please call Shirley Gambero, (559) 621-2962 or visit our WFFRC webs ite.

While Smith loves the game of golf and the bragging rights that go along with winning, he says the real reward is knowing that he is making a difference in the lives of young people. The scramble benefits the Sweet Potato Project, a prevention program that aims to prevent and/or reduce school drop-out, gang involvement, and substance use initiation for African American youth ages 12-15 by decreasing internalized oppression, hopelessness, and low collective efficacy, while increasing engagement in collective economic activity, college intentions, mentoring, and leadership development.

“It helps so many,” Smith said. “They are teaching kids long lost skills.’’

Smith, who also serves as one of the golf coaches along with Jason Murray at Edison High School, will bring some of his students to the tournament. Additionally, the day will feature students who played on the Hampton University Golf Team.

“It’s so much fun, and we are raising money for a great cause,’’ Smith said.

Back-to-School event a huge success!

Thousands of people attended West Fresno Family Resource Center’s 21st Back to School Health Fair held Saturday, August 5, at Chukchansi Park.This year, the resource center partnered with CalViva Health and the Fresno Grizzlies to serve even more students and families.The goal was to provide students with school supplies, resources and information to ensure that they would start school ready to learn.

The students received FREE backpacks filled with school supplies, FREE haircuts, FREE clothing, FREE health screenings and FREE shoes. In addition, event goers were entertained by several groups of dancers and drummers.

“It was a joy to partner with CalViva and the Grizzlies,” said Yolanda Randles, executive director of the Family Resource Center. “It’s truly amazing of what we can do when we come together for the good of the community. We are already looking forward to next year’s event to be bigger and better.’’

21st Back To School Health Care (Video)