Northern Sierra Crab Feed Raises Funds for Youth Mentors

When a community believes in its young people, they show up with crab crackers in hand and hearts wide open.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Sierra recently hosted its annual Crackin' Crab for Kids fundraiser at the El Dorado County Fair & Event Center. The event brought together sponsors, volunteers, and local leaders united by one mission: creating meaningful mentorship relationships for youth across the region.

"Our community showed up in a remarkable way," said Florence Parks, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Sierra. The packed event hall proved her point.

High school students from Golden Sierra, Ponderosa, and El Dorado rolled up their sleeves alongside adult volunteers. The El Dorado High School girls varsity basketball team worked the event. Key Club members partnered with Placerville Kiwanis volunteers to make the night run smoothly.

Local businesses stepped forward as sponsors, including El Dorado Disposal, Toogood Estate Winery, Marshall Medical Center, and Thompsons Family of Dealerships. Community groups like Hands 4 Hope, Gold Country Basketball, and New Morning Youth and Family Services donated their time and energy.

Silvio's Ravioli Factory and Catering provided the feast while the LoveSomebodyBand kept spirits high with classic R&B. The combination of good food, live music, and shared purpose created an atmosphere of celebration.

The Ripple Effect: Every dollar raised at this event directly supports mentoring relationships that research shows improve academic performance, social skills, and life outcomes for young people. When community members invest in organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters, they're not just supporting programs but investing in the future leaders, innovators, and neighbors who will shape the region for decades to come.

The organization now aims to reach $100,000 in donations by March 31. They're already planning next year's celebration for January 30, 2027, with the same beloved caterer and band returning.

Communities thrive when people invest in the next generation, one mentorship at a time.