On September 6, 2025, we hosted our fourth annual Rock the Block community festival—and it was our biggest celebration yet! More than 1,700 community members came together for an unforgettable afternoon of connection and joy, supported by over 150 staff and volunteers who made the day possible.
Our Teen Clubhouse and outdoor spaces were filled with energy as families enjoyed music, community booths, and plenty of treats—from Torani flavored lemonades and Ghirardelli world-famous sundaes to firefighter-grilled hot dogs. Guests got a taste of “A Day in the Life of a Club Kid,” exploring hands-on STEM stations, art activities, and musical experiences with Generation Music and Dhasa Care Music and Arts. Teens and kids alike tried out skateboarding with Rob Skate, martial arts with Pallen’s Martial Arts, and soccer and flag football with ANTS Sports. Every station reminded us of the power of after-school enrichment and the importance of ensuring that every young person in our community has access to these opportunities.
“This year’s Rock the Block was our biggest and most exciting yet,” said Kim Pace, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of San Leandro. “The energy, generosity, and sense of community reminded us why we do this work every day. This celebration reflects what our Clubs are all about—creating spaces where young people feel supported, inspired, and connected. We are so grateful to our families, partners, and volunteers who make this possible.”
Our partners made the day shine. Families enjoyed 1,500 hot dogs donated by Alameda County Board of Education Trustee Aisha Knowles and grilled on-site by the Alameda County Fire Department and Local 55—a favorite tradition. As Public Affairs Manager Cheryl Hurd shared, “This event means a lot to us because it gives us the opportunity to get to know the people we serve. Firefighters are often there on your worst day. This gives us the chance to meet the community on their best day.”
The festival also featured hands-on engagement from our incredible community partners:
- The American Heart Association offered hands-only CPR demonstrations
- Alameda County Sheriff’s Office showcased their Mobile Crime Scene Unit
- The Lawrence Hall of Science led interactive STEM experiments
- Vision to Learn provided free eye screenings
- San Leandro Public Library shared free books and literacy resources
- Chabot College, Professional Women in Building, BIA, and the USS Hornet Museum introduced families to exciting STEM and career-readiness pathways
- Chase Bank, Region Center East Bay, and our own BGCSL staff hosted workshops on financial literacy and college and career exploration
Special thanks to Juniper Corner for creating a fun space for our youngest explorers, and to Safeway andPower Plusfor keeping everyone fueled and hydrated throughout the day.
Rock the Block has grown into a cornerstone community event—a joyful gathering that unites neighbors, schools, businesses, and organizations in support of our mission to serve more than 5,000 youth across San Leandro, San Lorenzo, and New Haven Unified School Districts.
We’re deeply grateful to be part of such a vibrant and caring community that comes together year after year to lift up young people. Rock the Block is a powerful reminder that every child deserves the chance to explore their potential, and when we work side by side, great futures truly start here.
