Board of Directors

Andrae Gonzales

Andrae was elected to Bakersfield City Council in November 2016. Prior to his service on the City Council, he served as a trustee on the Bakersfield City School Board for six years. He currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of a non-profit organization that helps seniors and disabled citizens manage their incomes.  Andrae is…

Natasha Felkins

Children First is an organization that encompasses the values and compassion needed to reach some of our most underserved community members. We not only see the needs of East Bakersfield, but we are deeply connected through our own experiences, which enables our board to proceed with heart and understanding. Each of us wants to help…

Daisy Torrez

I’m proud to serve on the Children First board because I believe in their mission. Making a difference in the community and opening up new opportunity to children is something that is dear to my heart.

Karen Avila Santiago

Children First provides a space of growth, empowerment, and compassion for east Bakersfield and its volunteers. I became involved when I was only a high school student, and I have learned more about myself and my community through our service. Children First has provided me, along with many other volunteers, the outlet to directly serve our…

Carlos Bello

Victor Palacio

After learning of Children First, and its mission to directly address access to essential resources, food insecurity and educational opportunities – I knew I had to connect and support the organization’s efforts. Professionally, I engage the community to create opportunity that serves the homeless population and empowers them to rebuild their lives toward a sustainable…

Ed De La Vega

Tere Aldos

Mina Mendel

Julissa Bhakta

Alfred Valenzuela

Jennifer Williams Cordova

After learning of Children First, and its mission to directly address access to essential resources, food insecurity and educational East Bakersfield has always had a special place in my heart because it is where my maternal grandparents lived throughout my childhood. In 2018, I was asked to facilitate the mural at David Nelson Pocket Park….