-Editorial
For 44 years, the Children’s Fair at Bucklin Park in El Centro has been a cherished community event aimed at celebrating and advocating for child safety. The fair, organized by the Imperial County Child Abuse Prevention Council (CAP Council), brings together families, community leaders, and organizations in support of children’s welfare.
The Children’s Fair featured music, dancing, and a variety of entertainment, offering fun for the whole family. Mariachi, Lucha Libre, and a variety of activities were available. For four decades, generations of Imperial Valley residents have attended this event making it an event that many look forward too.
Yvette Garcia, Executive Director of the CAP Council, reflected on the significance of the event.
“April is National Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Month. During this month, we celebrate our children and families, advocate for victims of child abuse, and highlight the importance of ensuring children are provided with the resources and support they need to succeed,” Garcia said.
The CAP Council, which has been at the forefront of child safety in Imperial County since 1978, was founded following a tragic case of child abuse. “In 1978, a child was severely injured, left with permanent brain damage, and it sparked a movement among concerned citizens, including Dr. and Mrs. Calvin, to start the CAP Council,” Garcia explained. “We recognized the need for more resources and services to prevent these tragedies from happening.”
Over the years, the Children’s Fair has become a highlight of the community, drawing thousands to Bucklin Park every year. The fair’s origin dates back to Sue Tally, one of the CAP Council’s founders, who brought the idea from San Diego. “Sue came back from San Diego, where they had a similar event for children, and thought, ‘Why can’t we do this here?’” Garcia said. “It started small, with just a few dozen participants, but it quickly grew into this massive event that fills the entire park.”
This year, the fair’s theme is “It Takes a Village,” reflecting a call for stronger community connections to support children. Garcia emphasized the importance of reconnecting with neighborhoods and building stronger, more supportive environments for families. “It’s a return to the old saying ‘It takes a village.’ We need to ensure that everyone—neighbors, families, and friends—are working together to protect and support our children,” she said.
Marcela Morlett, Education Coordinator at the Imperial County Office of Education, shared her thoughts on the Children’s Fair and the importance of community engagement. “Today, we have a planting station where children can plant flowers, take them home, and watch them grow,” Morlette explained. “We have over 1,000 plants available, and it’s a great hands-on activity for children and parents to enjoy together. On the other side, we’re also offering activities like bracelet making, crown-making, and kinetic sand, helping children learn through play.”
Morlett, who is participating in the fair for the first time, expressed her excitement about the event’s legacy. “This is the 44th annual Children’s Fair, and it’s great to see all the community agencies come together to provide resources and support for families,” she said.
