Boys Town’s 15th Annual Blue Water Bash, held on July 18th at the historic Roof Garden Ballroom in Arnolds Park, drew close to 300 supporters and broke all previous fundraising records, and surpassing $300,000 in proceeds to benefit the operations and preservation of the organizations 74-year-old Okoboji Campgrounds.
The evening began with an invocation by Boys Town youth Hailey. CEO Rod Kempkes then welcomed guests and reflected on the camp’s legacy and the life-changing impact Boys Town has had in Iowa and across the country. He recognized Boys Town alumni Tony Jones, Rodney Whitehall, and Barney Hill, who were in attendance.
Blue Water Bash honorary chairs John & Lisa Haver shared their history of board service and event engagement. Event chairs Adam & Joey Gaines shared their history of foster care, adoption, and placing one of their own children in the Boys Town Family Home program.
One of the evening’s most powerful moments came when newly elected Boys Town Mayor Denali shared her journey at Boys Town. Peers Mikenna & Bella, both residents of the Roberto & Leslie Lucero-Miner family home, received standing ovations after sharing their favorite experiences and memories from Camp Okoboji.
Additional stories from Boys Town alumni, lifeguards, and camp staff echoed the camp’s healing impact, emphasizing the importance of boating, fishing, tubing, and simply being kids in a safe, supportive environment.
The live auction, described by longtime attendees as “the best yet”, featured an opportunity to have a VIP tour and breakfast featuring Chef Julie’s favorite cinnamon rolls at the campgrounds with Boys Town achievement youth. Bidding was so intense that the breakfast was sold two times. Other packages featured a stay and play at a Dormie Network Golf Course, as well as trips to the Oregon Coast, Florida Gold Coast, Beaver Creek, Las Vegas, and Domaine Serene Winery.
The evening closed with live music by the “Neon Kings” band and a moving group performance with the Boys Town youth of the song, “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother,” reaffirming Boys Town’s core belief in compassion and shared responsibility.
Since 1952, Camp Okoboji has offered Boys Town youth the kind of summer escape many have never had the chance to experience. Thanks to the incredible generosity shown at this year’s Blue Water Bash, that tradition is set to continue for generations to come.
Next year’s 75th Anniversary event will feature a throwback to the camp origins with a 1950s theme.
Grab your saddle shoes, poodle skirts, and leather jackets to join us for some “Tutti-Frutti” & “Grease Lightning” while we “Rock around the clock” on Saturday, July 24th.
