Boots Out for Kids 2026
Photos from the 30th Annual Gala benefiting Boys & Girls Clubs of Fresno County · September 25 · Academy Homestead Ranch · Clovis
The 30th Annual Boots Out for Kids Gala brought Central Valley supporters together on September 25, 2026 to benefit Boys & Girls Clubs of Fresno County. The Western Elegance event at Academy Homestead Ranch supported programs and operations serving young people across 14 local Clubs.
2026 Boots Out for Kids Gallery
Photos are shuffled each time the page loads so different guests and moments can appear near the top. Tap or click any image to open the photo viewer. High-resolution downloads are available from inside the viewer.
Western Elegance, Down to the Details
Before guests arrived, the visual impact was already there. Rich blues, warm neutral tones, florals, glassware, candlelight and Western details transformed Academy Homestead Ranch without losing the character of the venue itself.
We were also glad to work again with Micshel Kalkowski of Soirée by Micshel. Micshel helped shape the décor and visual presentation and was involved in coordinating vendors who contributed to the evening. We've had the opportunity to work together across multiple community events, and we genuinely appreciate the working relationship we've built along the way.
AEH Perspective Community involvement has introduced us to some great people and organizations throughout the Valley. Those relationships are one of our favorite parts of continuing to show up.
A Voice I'll Remember
Before the crowd settled in for the formal program, I happened to catch Naziah, the 2026 Fresno County Youth of the Year, practicing her speech in front of her peers.
I took the photograph, but what stayed with me was her voice. She spoke with a confidence that was undeniable.
Her story includes real challenges, but hardship did not feel like the headline. Perseverance did. Growth did. So did the confidence of a young woman who had clearly learned how to stand up, speak and be heard.
The Boys & Girls Club has been part of that development. Programs, mentorship and supportive places can sound abstract until you see what those investments can help build in an actual young person.
I left that night remembering Naziah's name. She has the kind of confidence and presence that makes me feel this will not be the last time our community hears from her.
The Gala Ends. The Work Continues.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Fresno County operates Clubs in urban and rural communities throughout Fresno County and reports serving more than 3,600 young people each year.
Its programs focus on areas including academic success, character and leadership, healthy lifestyles and creating supportive places where young people can grow.
Club youth welcomed guests as they arrived—one of the simplest and strongest reminders of who the evening was there to support.
Why We Show Up The gala may last one evening. The work it helps support continues throughout the year. For us, that is the part worth remembering.
Photos, Donations & Ways to Help
Where can I download the 2026 Boots Out for Kids photos?
Use the gallery above to browse the event photographs. Tap or click an image to open the photo viewer, then choose Download High-Res for the full-resolution file. The complete gallery can also be downloaded as a ZIP file.
What is Boots Out for Kids?
Boots Out for Kids is the annual fundraising gala benefiting Boys & Girls Clubs of Fresno County. The 2026 event marked the 30th year of the gala formerly known as Stepping Up for Kids.
Where was Boots Out for Kids 2026 held?
The September 25, 2026 event was held at Academy Homestead Ranch in Clovis, California.
How can I donate to Boys & Girls Clubs of Fresno County?
Visit the official donation page for current giving options.
Can I volunteer with Boys & Girls Clubs of Fresno County?
Volunteer availability can change throughout the year. Check the current volunteer page for the latest status and future opportunities.
Can I donate professional services or resources instead of money?
Boys & Girls Clubs of Fresno County provides current guidance for in-kind contributions. Needs change, so asking what would currently be useful is usually a good first step.
Where can I learn more about Soirée by Micshel?
Visit Soirée by Micshel to learn more about Micshel Kalkowski and her Central Valley event work.
Who photographed Boots Out for Kids 2026?
Photography was provided by Dani Cabrera of All Elite Homes. Photography and video are capabilities we already use inside our real estate business, and community events are one way we can put those same resources to work locally.
This Didn't Start With One Event
Community involvement means more to us when it becomes a history instead of a headline. These are some of the ways we've spent time showing up across the Central Valley over the years.
Paused until this section is in view
We're Never Too Busy for Our Community.
A couple of people asked me that night if I was a photographer. The answer is yes—but that isn't really why I was there.
Photography and video are things we already use every day at All Elite Homes. When those same skills can help showcase an organization doing meaningful work in the place we call home, saying yes feels pretty natural.
I was born and raised here. We believe being part of a community should mean more than simply doing business in it. Sometimes the contribution is money. Sometimes it's time, equipment, experience, creativity or simply being willing to show up.
We're busy. I'm busy. But I never want to become too busy for my community. Our goal is simple: contribute where we can and leave this place a little better than we found it.
Dani Cabrera Team Leader · All Elite Homes · Brokered by Epique Realty · CA DRE #02088934