July 12, 2025, CFHI was honored to join Black/African American families from throughout all of Orange County at Disney on the Yard’s first West Coast Yardfest, held in the lively Downtown Disney District, Orange, California. It was an action-packed day of fun, culture, and camaraderie—a genuine Family Fun Day loaded with the glorious heritage of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and the exuberance of the Divine Nine.
The atmosphere was charged with energy as families enjoyed a live DJ spin, thrilling giveaways, and a surprise highlight: an unplanned performance by Drum Major Mickey Mouse and his high-energy HBCU Drum Major Crew. The special musical presentation of movement and fanfare celebrated the cultural heritage that HBCUs have honored for centuries.
Beyond the raucous festivities, the Yardfest served the higher purpose of putting into the forefront the necessity of supporting HBCUs and of challenging young Black/African American students to consider college as a reachable, life-enhancing goal.
At CFHI, we know that college is not just a milestone; it is a life-changing, brain-expanding experience that can shatter cycles and build stronger, healthier families and communities. We are committed to overcoming obstacles, and especially financial ones that too often get in the way of Black/African American youth gaining this life-changing chance.
We know that investing in education changes lives, opens doors for careers, and enriches entire communities. Together, we can create a world where all children feel empowered to dream larger, achieve higher, and believe that college is attainable.
Let us continue to reap the benefits of our culture, celebrate our heritage, and, most importantly, pave the way for the next generation to take the reins. Join CFHI in making college education not a dream but a reality for every child in our community.
