What started as a brand-new summer celebration quickly became one of the year’s biggest successes for the San Juan College Foundation.
The Summer Time Family Fest, hosted in partnership with Dugan Production and the Dugan Family Foundation, brought together hundreds of community members for a day filled with food, fun, music and meaningful impact.
With more than 500 meals served from the Dugan BBQ trailer, live performances, family-friendly activities and a spirit of giving, the event raised an incredible $134,000 to support the Food for Thought program, which helps fight food insecurity among San Juan College students.
A Celebration of Community and Generosity
The first-ever Summer Time Family Fest exceeded expectations on every level. Attendees enjoyed live music by Reverend Catfish, balloon art from Bill Simkins, a variety of lawn games and a sprinkler hill that kept families cool in the summer sun. The SJC Cosmetology Department Club joined in the fun with creative face painting, while the Sherman Dugan Museum of Geology hosted interactive activities for curious minds.
Other highlights included a Friendly Cornhole Tournament, exciting performances by Luke Renner, the New Mexico Yo-Yo Slinger and a surprise visit from Blaze, SJC’s mascot. For four hours, the campus was alive with laughter, music, and the unmistakable sense of community pride.
“We couldn’t have asked for a better turnout or a more joyful atmosphere,” said Executive Director of San Juan College Foundation Gayle Dean. “This event truly brought our community together in the best possible way.”
Turning Fun into Impact
The event’s success was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, donors and attendees. In total, $67,000 was raised during the event through food sales and donations. Then, in an extraordinary act of generosity, Sean Dugan, President of Dugan Production, pledged to match all food sales and donations dollar for dollar bringing the final total to $134,000.
Those funds will directly benefit the Food for Thought program, which provides essential meals and groceries to SJC students experiencing food insecurity. The program ensures that students have access to nutritious food so they can focus on their studies and success without the burden of hunger. Funds also benefited the Harvest Food Hub.
Building a Tradition of Giving
The Foundation has already announced that the Summer Time Family Fest will become an annual event, joining its calendar of community fundraisers. With its blend of entertainment, family fun and heartfelt purpose, the event aims to build a stronger, more connected community.
