Creative Alternatives, Inc.

Play Poker? Tonight is the first event for Turlock Poker Rooms November Series. This event is a fundraiser for Creative Alternatives a local agency serving foster youth since 1976. $20 of your $120 buy-in goes directly to the youth we serve Don't play poker? Come make a donation and enjoy watching while enjoying a beverage. This even counts towards the series point total! Thank you to all that come out and play and/or contribute!

Friday was an amazing day! Alexis Borba (front row left), one of our Resource parents (since 2024) and the training specialist at the Gallo Winery site in Livingston, California organized a comfort kit drive with the 600 employees at Gallo winery. These kind folks generously donated 50 comfort backpack kits full of necessities such as pajamas, shoes, school supplies and plush stuffed toys for new children entering our foster homes. In addition, they raised and donated $1000 to further support the children.

All of us at Creative Alternatives would like to thank Alexis and her colleagues for their generosity. These comfort kits will make a huge difference in the disrupted life of these kiddos. Thank you!

Another former client thriving!

Jun 9, 2025, 6:47 AM
Mac Anthony Contrereas

From Foster Care to Guardian Long Range: A Full-Circle Moment
I hope this message finds you well. My name is Michael Contreras, though most know me as Mac—and I wanted to take a moment to reach out and say thank you. I grew up in the Creative Alternatives system out in Hughson, and the foundation you provided made a lasting impact on my life.

Recently, I wrote an article that touches on my experience in foster care and how it's come full circle through a program called Guardian Long Range—a community in the precision shooting world that supports foster youth across the country.

If you’d be willing to share the article within your network or on social media, I’d be truly grateful. I believe it highlights a story of growth, community, and the power of support systems like the one you all provide.

Here’s the link:
https://www.blackplagueprecision.com/post/from-foster-care-to-guardian-long-range-a-full-circle-moment

Thank you again for everything you do—and for the role you played in my life.

Warmly,
Michael (Mac) Contreras

From Foster Care to Guardian Long Range: A Full-Circle Moment I grew up in non-profit. I spent a large portion of my early career working in that world, and today I’m still deeply involved—whether it’s through board service, memberships, or just staying engaged in causes that matter. So, the idea of blending purpose with passion has always made sense to ...

Hello Friends, Happy 4th of July!
We hope you will enjoy celebrating the spirit of freedom this Independence Day. In observation of the holiday, our offices will be closed on Friday, July 4th.