At Penny Lane Centers, we believe that strong communities are built by ensuring families have access to the resources, relationships, and support they need to thrive. Throughout the year, our Community and Family Resource Centers (CFRC) and Resource Support Services (RSS) create opportunities for families to connect with local organizations, learn about valuable services, and build meaningful relationships. This June, that commitment came to life through a vibrant Community Resource Fair at Mission College that welcomed families, children, students, and community members for a day centered on connection, empowerment, and hope.
This June RSS and CFRC hosted a Resource Fair at Mission College which brought together community members, families, children, and students for a day of connection, learning, and fun. Families enjoyed free food, arts and crafts, and engaging activities, while children received a free book to encourage a love of reading. Staff from both RSS and CFRC worked hard to create a welcoming and inclusive environment, bringing together a variety of local organizations to ensure resources addressing the diverse needs of children and families were available.
Attendees explored resource tables, met representatives from community organizations, asked questions, and learned about local programs and services—all in one convenient location. By increasing awareness of available supports, the event made it easier for families to connect with resources that promote education, health, family wellness, and financial stability.
The Resource Fair also strengthened the Protective Factors of Social Connections and Concrete Support in Times of Need by fostering meaningful relationships between families and community partners. Through these connections, attendees expanded their support networks and gained access to valuable information and services that help children and families thrive.
Events like this demonstrate the power of collaboration and community partnership. When families know where to turn for support and feel connected to those around them, they are better equipped to overcome challenges and build brighter futures for their children. Penny Lane Centers is proud of the dedicated RSS and CFRC teams who made this event possible and remains committed to creating spaces where every family feels welcomed, supported, and empowered. We look forward to continuing these efforts and strengthening our communities—one connection at a time.
Check out some more photos below!
On May 30, Penny Lane Centers' Antelope Valley Community & Family Resource Center (CFRC), in partnership with CAAASA Cares!, proudly hosted the Community Care Expo, bringing together local organizations, community partners, and families for a day dedicated to support, wellness, and connection. The event was designed to provide families with easy access to valuable resources—including groceries, diapers, free eyeglasses, health and wellness information, and a wide range of community services—all in one welcoming location. Throughout the day, attendees had the opportunity to meet with local service providers, ask questions, and discover programs that can help strengthen and support their families.
The success of the Community Care Expo would not have been possible without the incredible support of our community partners and vendors who generously shared their time, expertise, and services. Their commitment to serving the Antelope Valley helped create an event where families felt welcomed, supported, and empowered. We are equally grateful to the many families who attended, participated in activities, and made the day such a vibrant celebration of community. Your presence is what transformed this event into something truly meaningful.
A heartfelt thank you also goes out to the dedicated Penny Lane Centers staff and volunteers whose hard work, compassion, and teamwork made every detail of the event possible. From planning and setup to greeting families, coordinating activities, and connecting visitors with essential resources, our team demonstrated Penny Lane's mission of transforming lives through service and collaboration. Together, we strengthened community connections, expanded access to vital resources, and reminded everyone that when organizations and neighbors come together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families.
Summer is a time for making memories, spending time outdoors, and enjoying moments with family—and that's exactly what the Antelope Valley Community & Family Resource Center (CFRC) set out to create with its Summer Kickoff Extravaganza. As the temperatures rose and school let out, the AV CFRC team welcomed clients and their children to a local park for a day filled with laughter, connection, and carefree fun. The event gave families an opportunity to relax, recharge, and simply enjoy being together in a welcoming community environment.
The park was buzzing with excitement as children jumped into friendly games of tug-of-war, water balloon battles, water gun tag, and, of course, spent hours cooling off in the park's popular splash pads—a clear favorite among the kids. Throughout the day, participants enjoyed delicious food, won prizes, and created memories that will last well beyond the summer. While the children played nonstop, parents had the chance to unwind, connect with one another, and enjoy quality time with their families without the stress of planning or expense.
One parent's heartfelt words perfectly captured the impact of the event: "This is so nice of you all to do this for us. We can never buy these meals because they cost so much for all of us and all my kids. I wanted to do a fun park outing with the kids, but everything is so expensive right now... thank you for today."
Moments like these remind us why Penny Lane Centers does this work. Beyond the games and activities, events like the Summer Kickoff Extravaganza provide families with joy, belonging, and meaningful connections during challenging times. The AV CFRC team is proud to continue creating opportunities where every family feels supported, every child has a chance to simply be a kid, and every community member knows they belong.
Check out some more photos below!
