{"id":261239,"date":"2026-04-10T15:46:10","date_gmt":"2026-04-10T15:46:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ca\/261239\/"},"modified":"2026-04-10T15:46:10","modified_gmt":"2026-04-10T15:46:10","slug":"boots-on-the-ground-caps-off-ycs-grand-project-campaign","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ca\/261239\/","title":{"rendered":"\u2018Boots on the Ground\u2019 caps off YC\u2019s Grand Project Campaign"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"<\/a>More than 20 members of the Seal Beach Lions attended the event in support of The Youth Center.<\/p>\n

By Brooklyn De Shazer<\/p>\n

The Youth Center\u2019s 2026 One Grand Project closing event brought together volunteers, campaigners, and community members to celebrate their collective impact in supporting local youth.<\/p>\n

Nearly 100 campaigners took part in this year\u2019s One Grand Project, each aiming to raise $1,000. Together, they exceeded expectations, raising $101,786 to benefit youth programs and scholarships.<\/p>\n

From bake sales and social media outreach to community partnerships and business engagement, campaigners of all ages, ranging from 8 to 89, worked tirelessly to make a difference. Their creativity, dedication, and passion highlighted the power of a united community working toward a shared goal.<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u201cHuge shout out to our Campaign Chair, Kristin DiMiceli, who brought humor, passion, and incredible energy to this year\u2019s campaign,\u201d said Lina Lumme, Executive Director of The Youth Center. \u201cFor the past 30 days, she rallied volunteers to raise funds for kids because she has seen firsthand the impact our programs and scholarships have on local families.\u201d<\/p>\n

The campaign wrapped up with \u201cBoots on the Ground,\u201d a lively casino-style event with a Western twist. Guests arrived in festive Western attire and enjoyed appetizers, casino games, a jewelry auction, line dancing, and even a ride on a mechanical bull, creating a fun and memorable evening for all. Beyond the celebration, the event underscored the deeper mission of The Youth Center: building a strong, supportive community where youth feel safe, valued, and inspired. The One Grand Project not only raises critical funds but also brings people together to create meaningful change.<\/p>\n

Proceeds from the campaign directly support The Youth Center\u2019s wide range of programs, including tutoring, after-school care, summer camps, leadership development, and enrichment opportunities, ensuring children have the tools they need to learn, grow, and thrive. \u201cThe Youth Center creates opportunities, builds confidence, and provides a safe place for kids to grow,\u201d said Kristin DiMiceli. \u201cBeing part of an effort that ensures these programs continue for future generations is incredibly meaningful to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Top fundraisers recognized in the One Grand Project Hall of Fame include Tom Curran, Karen & Eric Frankenberg, Beth Piburn, Monica Wissuchek, Brian Leibl, Garage Pilates, Lorraine Navarro, Mike Prencavage Jr. (The Family Plumber), and Debbie Kent. Oak Middle School student Drew Hatakeyama was honored as the 2026 Youth Fundraiser, raising an outstanding $2,850.<\/p>\n

The Youth Center extends its heartfelt gratitude to all campaigners, donors, and supporters who made this year\u2019s success possible. Special thanks to community partner Rossmoor Community Services District for hosting the event, and to sponsors SA Recycling, Prologis, Cal Custom Interiors, Columbia Bank, Wendy Grose, Edward Jones, Epson, CI Solutions, and Ken Vecchiarelli for their generous support.<\/p>\n

For more information about The Youth Center or the One Grand Project, visit theyouthcenter.org.<\/p>\n

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