Community Story

Communities are built on compassion, connection and the shared belief that everyone deserves the tools to thrive. This mission echoes through the walls of Best S.T.E.P. Forward, a non-profit organization that has become a remarkable source of empowerment and growth for children with special needs and their families in Imperial Valley, California. The story is not just heartwarming; it’s a testament to what’s possible when determination meets generous community support.

Best S.T.E.P. Forward (BSF) was started in 2018 by Jackie Riddell, a loving mom of three children, two of whom are diagnosed with autism. She understood the benefits of physical activity and exercise for people with special needs, so she formed a small soccer team with adaptive rules and techniques. They didn’t have another team to play at first, so parents got their exercise too. Soon, extended families and community members came out to cheer them on. This was the humble beginning; seven kids playing soccer in a dirt lot. But like a pebble dropped in a pond, the rings of support spread through the hands and hearts of devoted parents and volunteers.

Today, BSF stands for sports, theater, expression and perseverance. At the center of its latest impact lies the newly opened sensory gymnasium. Located in a 15,000-square-foot warehouse in El Centro, California, the gym is designed to support developmental milestones, instill confidence and create joy. And more importantly, it offers a safe place to foster new friendships.

For children with sensory processing challenges, navigating the world can feel like an overwhelming experience. They often struggle in social situations and hesitate to step out of their comfort zones. The sensory gym is designed to nurture their self- esteem. It provides critical developmental skills like balance, coordination and sensory integration. From climbing structures that build motor skills to calming zones that regulate emotions, every corner of the gym is built for discovery and growth. And every milestone is celebrated, big and small.

A shared vision meets unwavering generosity

When Jackie discovered sensory gyms in her research, BSF faced a critical challenge – how to fund such an ambitious project. After years of fundraising by parents and volunteers, BSF moved into a rented warehouse in 2022. The indoor space, with only concrete floors, offered a welcome reprieve for kids and families to beat the California heat. It started with fun, adaptive activities – roller skating, relay races and building soap box derby cars. That’s when BSF volunteers met Bill Plourd, AgWest customer and Local Advisory Committee member.

“We met Bill in a restaurant after one of our soccer games.” says Jackie. “We were all covered in dirt and probably looked like a mess. Bill was so kind and curious to hear our story. He offered to support us with his business, El Toro Export, and lend any help he could. Later Bill called and told me that AgWest had a stewardship fund for local projects, and he asked if I had one in mind for BSF. I said absolutely! I even have the blueprints for a new sensory gym!”

The funding from AgWest, guided by local advisors, not only covered the design and creation of the space but also allowed BSF to equip the gym with state-of-the-art materials that align with the needs of children and young adults across a variety of developmental stages.

“This gym is so much more than just equipment,” Jackie says.” It represents hope and possibility. It's a space where our children feel strong, capable and celebrated. AgWest exemplifies what it means to be a true community partner. Because of their support, we’ve been able to create something that will impact countless lives for years to come."

An impact that continues to grow

Since the sensory gymnasium opened its doors in 2024, the impact has been nothing short of extraordinary. The space has already served nearly 300 kids in just its first year of operation. Each visit to the gym, guided by certified coaches, is a step forward for kids who are now meeting goals their families once thought impossible.

“My son Jesse has been involved with BSF since 2018,” says Ana Barajas. “I guess you could say, we’re one of the pioneer families. When Jesse was diagnosed, it was hard for my older children to understand he has special needs. One day I remember asking my older son to do a jumping jack. Then I asked Jesse to try. It was eye-opening for everyone. Jesse is 14 now and he did his first jumping jack in 2024! It didn’t matter that he did it during a baseball game. I cried and we all just cheered and celebrated!”

Continuing the journey

Best S.T.E.P. Forward is an inspiration, a light of hope and encouragement for families navigating the challenges of disability. The sensory gym is a testament to the power of people coming together to help others – one step at a time. It serves as a reminder that when we invest in opportunity and care, when we believe in someone’s best step forward, it always leads to extraordinary outcomes.

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