Local community organization take first step in building a better Stratford

Reestablishing Stratford is the brainchild of Stratford residents Rob Isquierdo and Ramon Chavez, both of whom see a bright future ahead for their tiny community. And if Saturday’s turnout was any indication, their quest for a better Stratford got off to a great start.

The two, and several others from Stratford, including a local pastor, Treasurer Ray Avina and board Secretary Mayra Martinez, who make up the governing board of the 501 c 3 non-profit organization hope to bring change to their small town and to change its image.  The overriding goal of this group of committed citizens is to bring respectability to their town through its newfound mission: To break the cycle of negative activities associated with rural small town living by offering positive alternative activities and services that inspire hope.

Isquierdo, a Hanford teacher, was inspired by Chavez, whom he saw building a basketball court in an abandoned building for local youth to use.  He thought more could be done to improve the lives of Stratford residents. He approached Chavez and told him how much he respected what he was doing. “Let’s start an organization together,” he told Chavez.

“First when Rob (Isquierdo) approached me I didn’t take him seriously,” said co-founder and President Ramon Chavez at the end of the kids’ run Saturday morning. “I guess that’s pretty much our attitude here. There wasn’t much hope here, but when Rob brought this up with me I thought it might be able to change the culture. That’s one of the reasons we joined forces and now this thing has just taken off. My heart’s in this cause.”

The two got together and came up with the idea of Reestablishing Stratford. With a little help from The United Way, which is helping guide the two in their quest for an IRS non-profit status, the two hope to get the funds needed to be successful.

The group’s goals are lofty: Building a sports complex, create language programs for adults, sponsor positive community events, build a community garden, and much more.

Reestablishing Stratford has already garnered support. In addition to the United Way, the Stratford organization was awarded $2,500 from the Kings Lions Club, which was presented to Chavez and Isquierdo during last month’s annual Kings Brewfest.

The organization’ first official event was of course Saturday’s 5K/Kid’s Run and festival. All participants received a T-shirt and all kids under 12 got a medal.

This event is designed to create awareness of our community as well as help redefine the city’s reputation as a safe, positive, thriving community by bringing in spectators from all over the valley for a great family experience. It is also designed to create hope for the residents of Stratford who have been hit hard in recent years by the drought.

There was also a post-race festival featuring food vendors, music, community service organizations, live performances, and games.