“This is fun!” Exclaimed the kids jumping up and down in the bounce house. The Veteran’s Park in Imperial Beach turned into an amusement park for the much anticipated “Military Youth Bash.” Bounce Houses, inflatable slides, photo booth and games such as tug-o-war were enjoyed by all. The best part, admission was free.
“Military Youth Bash” served almost 300 Imperial Beach families with back packs and school supplies. The event was organized by Darnisha Hunter, veteran advocate to San Diego Mayor Faulconer’s office. Over 73 volunteers joined forces to hand out back packs and school supplies to our Military youth at the Veterans Park in IB. The event was sponsored by the County Board of Supervisors, SDMAC, Urgent Care on Palm Ave., NASSCO, VFW Post 5477, Seaside Candy and Palm West Realty, Chula Vista Elks Club and Latter Rain Ministries of Imperial Beach. Several veteran organizations pitched a booth in support of the event. Members of the local Mar Vista HS JROTC and Boy Scouts of America, Troop 895 led the colors and the pledge of allegiance.
“I loved volunteering for the Military Youth Bash, because it was impactful for the community as well as providing a fun day for local residents to enjoy with their families. I’m proud of Darnisha Hunter for putting this event together with her committee as it took a lot of coordination and effort. Darnisha is one of the most influential people that I know and I am honored to be her friend. She is an incredible role model for all!” -Major Kevin Cortes, USMC, Retired. Many organizations from the Imperial Beach community lent a hand. Latter Rain Ministries and VFW Post 5477 provided the hot dogs, chips and waters. US 4 Warriors manned the crushed ice, popcorn and snacks. Everyone played a big part in making the event fun and memorable. It was a great time for all that attended.
”What a tremendous event. Darnisha has an amazing ability to bring so many people together to do something great. ”What a tremendous event.
Darnisha has an amazing ability to bring so many people together to do something great. It was such a pleasure sitting at the park, consuming delicious libations and watching the kids have fun with the activities. They were so appreciative of the backpacks and school supplies. What a wonderful day. As a member of the VFW Auxiliary I could never have organized such an event. Without Darnisha’s knowledge on planning such events, Imperial Beach would have missed out. ” – Joyce Huddleston, VFW Auxiliary Senior Vice President 2018-2019.
Darnisha resides in Imperial Beach and she was concerned with our military families not having the resources to provide their children with the necessary school supplies. “Low pay, extensive budget cuts in our school systems, cause many families to struggle” Darnisha stated. She understands the hardships of the Imperial Beach residents and Darnisha does whatever she can to support her neighbors and our military families.
Thank you Darnisha Hunter for your endless dedication to our military and their families. Homeland Magazine wishes you much continued success in all your endeavors. May God Bless you for all you do.
-CJ Machado, veteran advocate and photojournalist
