Welcome to Cal-Nev-Ha Division 42!

Happy April, Fellow Kiwanians-

The first quarter of the year brought us ups and downs. Despite the times, we as Kiwanis continued to move forward and to serve our CommUnities, sharing tears of loss and joy. Thank you again for those who have been the pillars and support to those around you. Thank you for your continued service, providing opportunities and experiences to individuals who would not have them without your endless efforts.

During this month’s DCM, Javier Gomez from Inlakech in Oxnard was recognized for his five decades of dedication and support to the youth of Oxnard. Javier Gomez, better known as Mr. Gomez, has been a lifelong educator with a passion for visual and performing arts and cultural conservation. As a teacher, his warm demeanor welcomed students to explore their talents learning traditional folkloric and indigenous dance, acting in plays, playing an instrument, and serving their community, all while promoting the importance of attaining an education and completing a college degree.

Through the Inlakech Center, youth from Oxnard and neighboring cities have had the opportunity to grow both personally and creatively. Participants have moved on to be professional performers, not to mention educators, administrators, lawyers, architects, lawyers, doctors, and everything in between. Many of which may not have had the motivation to do so without their participation in the Center. A Center that provides their programming at no cost to their participants.

His passion to help others was passed on to his daughter, Xotchitl Gomez, or Ms. Gomez to her students at Hueneme High School, where she serves as a Counselor. She was also recognized and given the Lt. Governor Award for her dedication to her students. She has been a Counselor for over twenty years, serving the community she grew up in.

The evening which began with a stage full of elementary through high school students was a reinforcement that every child can become the best versions of themself as long as they have the support of their CommUnity. They (students) are more able to succeed if they are provided with the space, opportunity, and direction for them to feel safe to fail, self-reflect, and learn to grow from their mistakes. It is through individuals like Mr. Gomez, Ms. Gomez, and all the Kiwanians who filled The Arc that children have the opportunity to achieve their dreams. All of our collaborative efforts make a difference, whether it may be the meal that was provided through our canned food drives, the warmth they experience through the donated coats, toys they entertained themselves with through our toy drives, or college tuition they received through our scholarships that helped them separate from their hardships and embrace the blessings they have received.

Let’s continue to recognize the Gomezes in our communities, as they do not do it for a pat on the back, but rather to lift their community and through impacting the youth, who are the future.

THANK YOU, fellow Kiwanians; you are all the pieces of the puzzle who make the difference in our youth, neighbors, and CommUnity! 

Temo Solorio