-Editorial
What began as a small community initiative inspired by the legacy of a devoted Rotarian has grown into one of Imperial County’s most heartwarming spring break traditions. Now in its third year, George’s Kids Bowl brought together over 450 attendees this past weekend, offering a fun-filled and inclusive experience for families navigating autism.
At the heart of this project is Caitlin Chavez, a dedicated board member of the El Centro Rotary Club and co-organizer of the event alongside fellow Rotarian Eric Freeman. Chavez emphasized that this event is more than just a day of bowling—it’s about continuing the work of someone who made a lasting impact on the community.
“This is our third year doing the event,” Chavez shared. “The first year we launched it was in 2023, and it takes place of a First Responders Bowling Event that originally took place in 2019. After the pandemic, we reconnected with ASIC (Autism Support of Imperial County) because of George McFadden.”
George McFadden, a former El Centro Rotarian, and his wife Audrey started ASIC in response to their grandson’s autism diagnosis in the 1990s. Their mission was to provide vital resources, education, and support to parents facing similar challenges.
“In remembrance of George, it’s El Centro Rotary wanting to continue his legacy,” Chavez said.
The event, held at PlayZone Bowling located at 950 N. Imperial Ave in El Centro, offered families a relaxing, judgment-free zone where children on the autism spectrum—and their siblings—could have fun together. From bowling and games to meals provided free of charge, everything was made possible through community fundraising.
“If you were to take a family of three out to bowl, eat, and enjoy an afternoon like this, it would be pretty expensive,” Chavez noted. “We raise funds so we can offer this at no cost. These families are already handling so much. Bowling is a relaxing activity, and it creates a space for siblings to bond—even if one child is on the spectrum and the other isn’t. It’s a low-stakes, fun atmosphere where everyone can just enjoy the day together.”
Francisco Vargas, a resident of Imperial, attended the bowling event with his son Adel and his other child, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the inclusive atmosphere.
“I think it’s something cool because it allows them to interact with other kids, to experience things some parents might not be able to provide on their own,” Vargas said. “It’s nice to see other children on the spectrum, or with similar disabilities, accomplishing things and enjoying themselves in a space where they feel comfortable.”
Although this was his first time participating in the bowling event, Vargas shared that his family has been involved with other ASIC activities before, including the 5K run and a community movie outing to see the Super Mario Bros. film.
“Ever since we got here, my son was super excited—he kept asking, ‘Can I go in? Can I go in?’” Vargas said with a smile.
James Gonzalez, Autism Support of Imperial County President, shared his enthusiasm for the growing collaboration between local organizations and the El Centro Rotary Club during this year’s autism-friendly bowling event.
“We’ve gotten together with Rotary to promote this free event for our families and their kids,” Gonzalez said. “It’s intended to promote awareness in the community, but also to create a safe and fun space for families. Autism can make socialization difficult, so events like this help get kids out of their shells and into the community.”
Gonzalez noted that community support has been steadily increasing in recent years, a trend that has empowered ASIC to broaden its reach and deepen its impact.
“We’ve seen more support come out from across the community,” he said. “Rotary approached us wanting to create something larger than what we’d done in the past, and thanks to their support—and the network of businesses they bring together—and we really appreciate that.”
Jesus Martinez, a Calexico resident, attended the autism-friendly bowling event with her 15-year-old son Michael, who is on the autism spectrum. Martinez praised the event for creating a welcoming and supportive environment where children and families can feel at ease.
Martinez emphasized the importance of providing kids on the spectrum with opportunities to connect in a space where they can be themselves.
“It’s not a small or overwhelming place, and it helps the kids come out of their comfort zones,” she said. “Today, Michael made a new friend—Noah, who’s five years old and here for the first time. They hit it off right away. Events like this bring joy to the kids and peace to a fun event.”
