Jamie Dorkin - Special to the Sun

'You can ride a Harley without being in a gang.' according to Camp Erwin Owen Volunteer Coordinator, Sharon Stenerson.

This past Saturday, June 28, marked the second annual biker visitation event at the camp.

More than 73 motorcyclists roared into Camp Owen Satuday morning. The Christian-oriented groups encouraged the young wards with personal testimonies and everyone feasted at BBQ lunch.

Last year, 41 Harley’s representing six motorcycle clubs graced the pavement of the Kern River Valley with a mission to reach out to the boys at this county probation facility.

This year’s numbers have more than doubled as seven motorcycle clubs/ministries came to give a message of hope.

The day began when the bikers rallied at Kernville Elementary School to get organized for their grand entrance. Representatives of Black Sheep, Christian Motorcycle Association (CMA), Hardcore, Prodigalz, Sabbath Keepers, Set Free and Soldiers for Jesus attended.

At approximately 10:00 a.m., all that could be heard at the camp were the revving engines of 73 motorcycles, with riders donned in traditional leather apparel. Magnificently in sync, each motorcycle made its way to a designated space in the Camp Owen parking lot as is typical for this event.

'The boys will be able to walk through the bikes. They will be able to ask any questions. They (bikers) will start the bikes up for them, they (bikers) will talk to them about anything.' Stenerson said.

Intimidation has been a word associated with motorcycle clubs and their riders. The volunteers represented at this event were conscious to give no such impression.

'We want to be a part of the lives of these kids to help give them direction and purpose' said Youth For Christ Director Jim Lewis. Youth For Christ is responsible for organizing the event.

The primary goal of each of these groups is to offer encouragement to the boys by giving personal testimonies of wrongs made right.

'That these kids can see changed lives and that they would know that they’re lives can be changed,' said Mike Tamargo, Juvenile Justice Ministries Coordinator.

Motorcycles weren’t the only attraction on this sunny summer day. The air was filled with the aroma of a barbeque served by the Growling Dog BBQ volunteers of the Olive Drive Church in Bakersfield. The food served to the crowd was made possible due to donations from the biker groups.

Also joining in on the fun was the Under Grace Community Fellowship Band 'Wheat' who entertained the crowd with their up-beat rock music.

The giving didn’t end there. Each of the boys was given a ball-cap commemorating the special day.

One hundred volunteers contributed to Saturday’s success. It is evident that this day could not have happened without the support of the community locally and at large. This event is a prime example of men and women of all backgrounds working together to bring a positive influence into the lives of young people.

Camp Owen Director, Marc Bridgford and Assistant Director, Thad Kennedy are both very supportive of events such as these. Community participation for events that benefit the residents at Camp Owen is welcomed.

'As many people as would like to volunteer, I’m certainly happy to have them.' Stenerson said.