Steve McClain serves as Finance Manager for the Kern Community Foundation, where he oversees the Foundation’s financial operations and supports its efforts to strengthen philanthropy and create lasting impact throughout Kern County.
Steve brings 30 years of financial and operational leadership experience, primarily within public education, along with experience in the local agriculture industry. Before joining the Foundation, he served as Director of Client Finance at Charter Impact, providing financial leadership and support to California charter schools. He also previously served as Chief Business Officer for Grow Public Schools and Bakersfield City School District, where he oversaw a wide range of business and operational functions. Throughout his career, he has focused on helping organizations navigate complex financial challenges, strengthen operations, and make informed decisions that support long-term stability and success.
Bakersfield and Kern County have been home to Steve and his family for more than 35 years. During that time, he has had the privilege of serving the community in volunteer and board leadership roles with several local non-profit organizations.
Steve is a Certified Public Accountant and holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration/Accounting from California State University, Long Beach. Steve believes strong organizations and strong communities are built through thoughtful stewardship, collaboration, and a commitment to serving others.
Cameron Reid is a Program Specialist with the Kern Community Foundation’s Bakersfield Youth Jobs Program (BYJP). She joined Kern Community Foundation in 2026 and works closely with youth and young adults as they explore career pathways, develop professional skills, and gain hands-on experience through internships and apprenticeships. Cameron is passionate about workforce development and creating opportunities that help people build confidence, gain valuable experience, and achieve their goals.
Prior to joining Kern Community Foundation, Cameron worked in youth development and nonprofit programming, supporting children, teens, and families through educational and enrichment programs. Her background includes program coordination, workshop facilitation, and career readiness training for young adults. In 2025, she earned her Master’s degree in Educational Technology and Instructional Design, further strengthening her passion for creating engaging and meaningful learning experiences.
Having relocated from Virginia to Bakersfield, Cameron is proud to support local youth and young adults through her work with Kern Community Foundation. In her free time, she enjoys reading, creating art, playing video games, and exploring the outdoors.
Amy Travis serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Kern Community Foundation, where she leads efforts to strengthen philanthropy, foster community partnerships, and advance initiatives that improve the quality of life throughout Kern County.
Amy brings more than 15 years of leadership experience spanning public service, philanthropy, and community impact. Prior to joining the Foundation, she served as Executive Director of First 5 Kern, a public agency dedicated to improving outcomes for young children and families through strategic investments, partnerships, and systems change initiatives. She also spent nearly a decade with CASA of Kern County, helping expand advocacy and support for children in foster care. Throughout her career, Amy has been recognized for her ability to bring people together around a shared vision, build meaningful partnerships, and translate complex challenges into actionable solutions. Her leadership has focused on strengthening organizations, advancing innovative programs, and leveraging resources to create lasting community impact.
Amy holds a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership from Fresno Pacific University and a Master of Arts in Strategic and Organizational Leadership. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Strategic Leadership with a concentration in Coaching at Regent University. A lifelong advocate for community well-being, Amy believes meaningful change happens when generosity, collaboration, and purpose come together to create opportunities for future generations.
Jim is the CEO & Principal Consultant at Linean. He leads a dynamic team dedicated to helping organizations thrive by aligning people, processes, and technology. At Linean, they specialize in strategic transformation and delivering AI-powered data solutions that create actionable intelligence, drive operational excellence, and accelerate sustainable growth.
Jim’s career is built on a proven track record of revenue generation, digital transformation, and AI-driven process improvement. Beyond his professional achievements, he is proud to be a two-time Ironman triathlon finisher, a five-time INC 5000 honoree, a YPO alumnus, and the City of Bakersfield’s Businessperson of the Year.
Jim is passionate about turning challenges into opportunities and empowering businesses to unlock their full potential.
Skylar Garcia serves as Community Impact Coordinator for the Kern Community Foundation, leading grant administration, nonprofit strengthening, and program coordination across Kern County.
He holds a Bachelor of Science in Recreation Administration from San Diego State University, is a Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), and a Certified Youth Sports Administrator (CYSA). Before joining the Foundation, he served as Program Coordinator for Shafter Recreation & Park District, partnering with the community to strengthen local recreation programs.
Beyond the Foundation, Skylar serves as Vice President of District 61 Little League and is a CIF (California Interscholastic Federation) certified basketball official.
Bernita, a proud Bakersfield, California native, is driven by an unwavering passion to uplift and empower youth, guiding them to create, rebuild, or add to their dreams. As a dedicated Sociology student at CSUB, she blends academic rigor with real-world impact.
In July 2024, Bernita became a program specialist for the Bakersfield Youth Jobs Program, where her leadership is already making waves. Her previous role as an Aftercare Lead Case Manager at The Open Door Network saw her excel in case management and housing, transforming countless lives.
Beyond her professional achievements, Bernita shines as a phenomenal mother and devoted wife. Her heart beats strongest for her nonprofit, Soar Solutions Youth Center, where she mentors at-risk and emancipated youth, fostering resilience and ambition in the community she loves.
