With another successful turnout and over $565,000 raised, Marin Foster Care’s (MFC) annual Blues and Brews 2025 brought Pacheco Ranch Winery in Novato to life with another two-day affair on October 3–4, given the event’s popularity and history of selling out.
200 guests came each night, with a few notable attendees that included Marin County Supervisor Eric Lucan, Marin County Supervisor Stephanie Moulton-Peters and Assemblymember Damon Connolly.
The event was kicked off by Marin Foster Care Association’s Executive Director Ashley Hurd, who highlighted the organization’s achievements from the year. Resource parent Riley Hurd then emceed a discussion with a former foster youth on how to overcome obstacles and achieve success.
Emmy-winning radio and TV personality Liam Mayclem introduced another former foster youth who spoke about the support she’s received from MFC and how she’s hopeful about her future as a dental assistant. He then carried on the remainder of the night as auctioneer and emcee, with a live auction that took place on both nights. There was also a silent auction on Saturday, and an online auction with over 100 items available over the course of both days.
“It’s hard to believe we are celebrating 10 years as Marin Foster Care Association. So much growth…yet so many more ways to impact the foster care community here in Marin and around the Bay Area,” Hurd says. “Being a foster parent has taught me a lot, but one thing stands out: no young person makes it alone. We all need people who show up for us — again and again. That’s what Marin Foster Care does. And that’s what our supporters are doing — just by showing up and coming together as a community.”
A raffle and some games additionally helped to raise money for MFC, but also ensured guests were enjoying their time.
Friday entertainment featured blues music by Tom Finch Group, and Saturday’s featured Eli Carlton-Pearson Trio. Friday’s guests were also able to grab a custom designed hat from Tommy Breeze, and Saturday guests enjoyed the 360 photobooth courtesy of Giggle & Riot Funbooths.
Dinner on Friday was catered by Lone Mountain BBQ and Respectable Bird, with a donut wall built by a volunteer and supplied by Donut Alley. Saturday’s event was catered by Sage Catering and Oyster Girls. BarCar provided cocktail service, and beverage sponsors included Crooked Goat Brewing, Equator Coffees, Fairfax Brewing Co., Hafner Vineyard, HenHouse Brewing and Maker. The two-day affair also couldn’t have happened without their venue sponsor, Pacheco Ranch Winery.
