PENN VALLEY, Calif. — It’s official! On June 25, 2026, the Nevada County Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve the Donald W. Young Penn Valley Community Center — a moment years in the making for the Penn Valley community. The approval paves the way for a 10,000-square-foot facility that will give residents of all ages a permanent home for connection, learning, and celebration. With a $500,000 grant already secured, the Penn Valley Community Foundation is ready to tackle the next big step: raising the more than $2 million still needed to make this vision a reality. The community is invited to celebrate at the Black Hats & Silver Buckles Gala on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the Penn Valley Rodeo Grounds.
Penn Valley Community Foundation Project Manager Chris Ring and Foundation President Teresa Dietrich presented on behalf of the Foundation, sharing how the community center will address real and pressing cultural, community, and safety needs in the area — and so much more. Members of the Foundation’s board of directors, advisory committee, and the Penn Valley Chamber of Commerce turned out in support.
“We will begin to create the vision of what our community talked about in all the past planning and vision meetings that happened. This team looked at every detail. It is a very exciting time for not only now but the future! This community center will be utilized by many people in our community! I am looking forward to greeting guests who will visit our new chamber visitors center!” -Anna Low, President, Penn Valley Chamber of Commerce
Now it’s time to celebrate and raise money for the project! Dust off your boots, grab your favorite hat, and get ready for an unforgettable evening of Western charm, good food, great music, and genuine community spirit. The Black Hats & Silver Buckles Fundraiser takes place Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m. at the Penn Valley Rodeo Grounds, featuring the local band, Outlaws & Angels. Every ticket purchased, sponsorship secured, and auction bid placed brings the community center one step closer to reality.
Last year’s gala sold out, so don’t wait — grab your tickets early. Can’t make it? You can still be part of something meaningful. Tax-deductible donations are welcome through the event page. Businesses and individuals interested in sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to reach out — there’s still time to get involved.
Purchase Tickets or Donate:
https://givebutter.com/black-hats-silver-buckles-werz0y
Event Details
Black Hats & Silver Buckles Gala
Saturday, September 12, 2026
5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Penn Valley Rodeo Grounds
Penn Valley, California
Evening Highlights
● Live music by Outlaws & Angels
● Dancing under the stars
● Live and silent auctions
● Catered dinner with choice of Tri-Tip or Portobello Mushroom entrée
● Complimentary drink ticket for all guests
● Wine service for VIP table guests
● Western-inspired attire encouraged
● Ample on-site parking
About the Donald W. Young Penn Valley Community Center
The Donald W. Young Penn Valley Community Center is a community-driven project close to the heart of Penn Valley. When completed, it will be a permanent gathering place for neighbors of all ages — a space for educational programs, cultural events, nonprofit services, emergency services, and everyday community life. The planned 10,000-square-foot facility will feature a commercial kitchen, performance stage, flexible meeting space, and classrooms. County approval is in hand, and initial grant funding is secured