On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, in San Diego, a talented group of nine dancers from Boys & Girls Clubs of North County took center stage at the National Boys & Girls Clubs of America Conference, showcasing the vibrant art of Ballet Folklórico to an audience of 3,000. Selected after a competitive audition process, the ensemble consisted of seven girls in grades 4-8 and two sixth-grade boys, all under the skilled direction of Victor Arias and Monica Mendez, the Vallecitos Site Supervisor.
These dedicated young performers devoted countless hours to their craft, practicing for 2.5 hours weekly and ramping up to daily rehearsals the week before the event. Their hard work culminated in a stunning performance marked by the twirling skirts, skillful footwork, and joyful spirit intrinsic to Ballet Folklórico.
To prepare for their appearance, the dancers also performed as a warm-up at the Boys & Girls Clubs of North County Great Futures Gala on April 12th, where they first showcased the energy and enthusiasm that would later captivate the audience at the conference.
Adding a personal touch to their performance, a devoted mother of one of the dancers volunteered to create beautiful handmade hairpieces in just two days. The girls looked fantastic on the event day, thanks to the collective efforts of site supervisors who expertly styled their hair. At the same time, Site Supervisor Perla Ordonez provided them with professional makeup, ensuring they shone brightly on stage.
The audience at the conference was left in awe, praising the dancers’ precision and beauty. Their performance not only highlighted their talent but also their commitment to community and cultural heritage.
“We are incredibly proud of our dancers and grateful for the support from our staff and families,” said Allison Barclay, President & CEO. “This experience has been invaluable for the dancers, allowing them to share their culture and passion with a wider audience.”
Boys & Girls Clubs of North County continues to allow children and teens to explore the arts, fostering personal growth, self-expression, and cultural appreciation among its members.
For over 60 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of North County has been the go-to spot for youth seeking friendship, fun, and personal growth outside of school. Starting in 1962 as a safe haven for boys, the Boys Club has since transformed into an inclusive hub for kids of all genders, continually adapting to the community’s needs and fostering new generations of leaders.
Boys & Girls Clubs of North County serves more than 2,500 kids annually across eight vibrant sites in Fallbrook, Bonsall, and Rainbow—making it the heartbeat of youth development in the area! To learn more visit www.bgcnorthcounty.org.
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