Presented by Ronald McDonald House Charities

Doing charitable work may sound noble, but it often comes with significant costs. That’s why fundraising events like the Ronald McDonald House’s annual Galactic Gala are so important to ensuring families in our community continue receiving the support they need during their most difficult moments.

Recently, Scarlet Sabin from the Bakersfield Ronald McDonald House and Michelle Hardt of Hardt Construction joined us to share why this event plays such a vital role in sustaining the house and the families it serves. The Galactic Gala directly supports the Bakersfield Ronald McDonald House, with 100 percent of the proceeds going back into the house to fund operations and expand services for families now and in the future.

The event embraces a fun and familiar theme. Since its inception, the Galactic Gala has leaned into a Star Wars–inspired experience, complete with “friends from another planet” making appearances throughout the night. This year’s gala takes place on September 30 at Bakersfield Country Club, promising an evening that blends entertainment with meaningful impact. While there won’t be Wookiee waiters, guests can expect themed fun and even a visit from Chewbacca himself.

Behind the lighthearted tone of the event is a serious mission. The Bakersfield Ronald McDonald House serves as a home away from home for families whose children are hospitalized at local area hospitals. Some of these families come from across town, while others travel from across the country or even internationally. In those moments, worrying about lodging, meals, and basic needs should never add to the stress of caring for a sick child.

Located near Bakersfield Memorial Hospital, the house supports families connected to all area hospitals. It currently offers seven rooms and expanded several years ago to add four additional rooms, reflecting the growth of pediatric services in the community. The Bakersfield Ronald McDonald House will celebrate 17 years of service next month, a milestone that highlights how much the need has grown alongside advancements in local pediatric care. With the recent opening of the pediatric operating room at Bakersfield Memorial, more procedures can now be handled locally, allowing families to stay close to home rather than traveling long distances. The Ronald McDonald House plays a critical role in making that possible.

For parents who have faced the hospitalization of a child, the impact is deeply personal. Knowing there is a safe, supportive place to stay allows families to focus entirely on what matters most: their child’s recovery. That firsthand understanding is why the mission of the Ronald McDonald House resonates so strongly with those involved.

A special highlight of the Galactic Gala is the presentation of the annual Spirit of Giving Award. As Michelle Hardt shared, this year’s award will honor the VV Family Foundation, led by Vint and Kristen Varner. The Varners have made a remarkable impact in the community by dedicating their time and resources to helping other nonprofits raise critical funds. Their annual Boots and Gowns in Nashville Sounds event has served as a centerpiece of charitable giving for more than 11 years, raising over one million dollars to benefit numerous organizations.

Through their efforts, the Varner family exemplifies collaboration, compassion, and leadership in giving back. Their work not only strengthens individual nonprofits but also inspires others to engage in meaningful philanthropy. The Spirit of Giving Award recognizes that every contribution, large or small, helps build a stronger community when people come together with purpose.

The Galactic Gala is more than a themed evening out. It is a night that directly supports families during some of the hardest times of their lives, while also celebrating those who lead by example in generosity and service. Community members are encouraged to attend on September 30 to support the Bakersfield Ronald McDonald House and to congratulate Vint and Kristin Varner and the VV Family Foundation on their well-deserved recognition.

Events like this ensure the doors of the Ronald McDonald House remain open, offering comfort, stability, and hope when families need it most.