Break the Barriers Auction

Break the Barriers is commemorating 39 years of service in the Central Valley! With the generous support of our community in past years, we have decided to hold the Drive Thru Tri-Tip Dinner annually.

Drive Thru Tri-Tip Dinner Event:
October 6, 2023 from 4:30-7:30pm at Break the Barriers
Tickets are available at:
btbannualdrivethrudinner2023.eventbrite.com.

This online auction (along with other fundraisers - connected to this event) will help provide Break the Barriers continued support to keep our programs running strong for the populations we serve. * Any price paid above listed “value” is tax deductible.

Break the Barriers was founded by Steve and Deby Hergenrader in 1984. Both wanted to create a place where people of all abilities, ages, and ethnicities could come together to participate in sports and performing arts.

This dream was sparked because of Deby’s sister Kathy. Growing up, Kathy was not able to take gymnastics or swim classes with her siblings because she had Down syndrome. Deby dreamed of a place for all abilities and when she met and married Steve, he helped her dream become a reality. The Hergenraders began offering gymnastics and dance classes in their backyard, not knowing that this program would grow to become an internationally known ability center.

Today, Break the Barriers has over 28 programs that include performing arts, gymnastics, martial arts, archery, aquatics, health and fitness, Veterans Program, Buddy Program, inner-city outreach, and a neurological recovery program. There is also a team of performers, called the Barrier Breakers, who travel on outreach trips to promote inclusion in the central valley and countries around the world. Through performances, assemblies, conferences, workshops, and clinics, Break the Barriers has helped show the world that all people have abilities.

Effective June 2019, Steve and Deby passed the torch to the next generation. Their oldest son, Jared Hergenrader, has been empowered with many years of training and responsibility to carry on the job of Break the Barriers’ Chief Executive Officer. Jared's love and passion for people and the ministry of Break the Barriers drives him to continue the legacy of his parents. With the support of the leaders and staff at Break the Barriers, Jared will continue to carry out the goal of bringing hope, joy, and ability awareness to people in the Central Valley and around the world.