Salinas committed to Sports Complex

First of series spotlighting the Shafter Recreation and Parks District board of directors. Nelson Salinas was re-elected for a second term in November representing District 1, and was reappointed chairman.

"It's a privilege and honor to continue serving my district and the community of Shafter," Nelson Salinas said in an interview. "I have a lot of ambition to finish the Wonderful Sports Complex in partnership with Shafter Rec. We've been working tirelessly on it, and I'm committed to going the extra mile to complete phases one and two within the next couple of years."

Salinas, the CEO of N&L Farm Labor Services, is also co-owner of Glam Salon & Spa and Shafter Ag Solutions Inc., alongside Alejandro Salinas and his mother, Rosa Salinas.

Coming from humble beginnings, Nelson's journey is one of perseverance and grit. "I was raised here in Shafter, growing up in the projects as part of a family of field workers. I know what poverty feels like, but I've also learned that through hard work, you can achieve your goals and dreams. As our businesses started doing well, we knew the importance of giving back. That philosophy has helped us grow. We're big advocates for building relationships, and I believe that's why we have such strong rapport with our employees and the community."

Over the years, Salinas is proud of the accomplishments he and his fellow board members have achieved. "We worked hard to secure new sponsorships, expand sports programs for kids and keep registration costs affordable so every family in Shafter can participate. We've introduced improvements like our Shafter Recreation and Parks District mascot, the Cadet, a symbol we chose together as a community. We've also extended after-school programs by partnering with schools in Shafter, and we are now present at Sequoia Elementary, Grimmway Academy and Redwood Elementary."

Salinas sees tremendous value in the SRPD's mission. "Our motto is 'Coming Together and Growing Together.' Sports may be the foundation, but it's about so much more. It's about building relationships, creating a sense of home and fostering friendships and family connections. Being part of a recreation program allows people to grow, whether through teamwork, understanding different personalities or simply listening to each other. There's so much growth when you are part of a recreation program."

Nelson especially appreciates the collaborative nature of the SRPD board, which he believes is one of the best Shafter has seen. "Our board members come from such diverse professional backgrounds. That collective experience makes us stronger and helps us achieve more because we bring different perspectives to the table. It allows us to understand challenges and accomplish our goals effectively."

For Salinas, listening to the voices of the community remains his top priority. "My hope for the future is to continue hearing the needs of our community so we can deliver. That's what drives me to serve."