S’moresfest 2025

Under strings of bistro lights on the grassy field, normally filled with children during our Summer at the Y program, guests gathered for the YMCA of Superior California’s S’moresfest. Laughter and conversation filled the air as attendees browsed silent auction tables and sampled three creative treats competing for the title of “S’more of the Year.” It was a close contest between The Cabin’s s’mores cocktail, Joyfully Baking’s s’mores brownie, and Candie’s Kitchen’s s’mores chicken and waffles, with Candies’ Kitchen taking home the s’mores trophy.

As the evening continued, guests enjoyed drinks from the famous canoe bar and barbeque from Chappy’s Smokehouse before settling in for the live auction. From a custom handmade quilt to a rustic weekend getaway at our Bear Valley Camp property, bidders eagerly raised their paddles to support the Y’s mission.

What stood out most that evening was the generosity that went beyond prizes. Attendees raised their paddle to donate and together topped $20,000. With the generosity of so many, the event raised more than $95,500 raised for YMCA programs. That support opens doors for children to gain confidence and safety in the water, for youth to find belonging in after-school programs, for seniors to stay active and independent, and for so much more to strengthen our community.

One powerful example came from Vickie Gandara-Zeiger, a participant in our Water Arthritis class. With her loyal service dog, Colton, by her side just as he has been in every class this past year, Vickie shared how the program helped her regain both mobility and confidence, allowing her to climb the stage steps to tell her story. Such an act can be taken for granted but for Vickie, it was a huge milestone. Even more meaningful was the sense of community she found along the way: “This community has changed my life, and I’m so grateful for that.”

Events like S’moresfest remind us that the Y’s strength lies in its people. Because of our donors, volunteers, and supporters, the YMCA continues to be a place where everyone belongs and where lives are changed every day. Thank you for showing up with such generosity and heart.

View photos of S'moresfest 2025 here!