Suds were flowing for a great cause once again as Sparkling Image Car Wash hosted its 15th annual fundraiser benefiting the Kern Environmental Education Program (Camp KEEP) on October 3. This year’s event raised more than $11,000 to support hands-on learning experiences for Kern County students.
For every full-service car wash or oil change purchased that day, Sparkling Image donated 50 percent of proceeds to the KEEP Foundation. Since the partnership began in 2011, the local business has contributed more than $135,000 to help ensure all students can experience KEEP’s life-changing outdoor education program.
“This event has become a tradition we truly look forward to each year,” said Juan Vargas, Sparkling Image Regional Manager. “It’s inspiring to know that something as simple as a car wash can help expand the experiences offered at camp to thousands of Kern County students.”
Alex Fisher, Vice President of the KEEP Foundation Board, says that community partnerships like this one make a lasting difference for students.
“Funds raised through events like this help enhance the programs and overall experience for kids at Camp KEEP,” Fisher said. “It’s all about creating those unforgettable moments of discovery and connection with nature that stay with them for a lifetime.”
Camp KEEP offers a five-day residential outdoor school experience for sixth-grade students at two coastal campuses operated by the Kern County Superintendent of Schools. More than 8,000 students each year explore tidepools, hike nature trails, and gain a deeper understanding of environmental science while developing independence, teamwork, and stewardship for the natural world.
Students from Del Rio Elementary (Rosedale Union School District) proudly hold an oversized check for $11,431.89 — funds raised through Sparkling Image Car Wash’s annual fundraiser benefiting Camp KEEP. The students will head to KEEP this January to experience the hands-on outdoor learning program that has become a Kern County rite of passage.
By Robert Meszaros
Rob Meszaros is Director of Communications for the Kern County Superintendent of Schools, where he has served since 2012. In his role, Meszaros oversees media relations, internal and external communication strategies, publications, Marcom, branding, and multi-media content creation. Before joining KCSOS, Meszaros was the PIO for CSU Bakersfield and earlier worked for seven years at The Bakersfield Californian.