For the Pentz family, supporting Pretend City Children’s Museum is about more than donating. It is about continuing a legacy of investing in children and creating opportunities for future generations.
Their connection to Pretend City began with Ronnie’s father, Ron Pentz, who first introduced the family to the museum. What started as a place to enjoy with their young children quickly became something much more meaningful.
One of Karina’s favorite parts of their Pretend City story is that it spans generations. Ron believed deeply in the museum’s mission and supported it as a donor. Today, Karina and Ronnie are continuing the tradition of joining the City Lights Giving Circle while creating new memories with their own children.
Watching their son explore Pretend City with confidence, imagination, and joy – and seeing their daughter begin her own journey of discovery – has made a lasting impression on the family. As parents of two young children, Karina and Ronnie have seen firsthand how Pretend City nurtures curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning through play.
“We wanted to continue our family’s tradition of giving back to an organization that has such a measurable impact on children and families throughout Orange County,” Karina said. “Making our first gift felt like a natural way to help ensure future generations can experience the same opportunities our family has enjoyed.”
For Karina, Pretend City’s impact extends far beyond a single visit. She values the important role the museum plays in helping children develop a lifelong love of learning while building critical social, emotional, and problem-solving skills through play. Just as importantly, she appreciates the resources and programs available to families that support healthy child development and create an impact that lasts long after children leave the museum.
Watching her own children grow through each stage of childhood has only reinforced that belief. “From infancy to toddlerhood and beyond, their interests and curiosity are always evolving,” she shared. “It reinforces the idea that the organizations we choose to support today become cherished memories and meaningful experiences for the next generation.”
Giving back has always been an important part of Karina and Ronnie’s family values. As parents, Karina and Ronnie believe every child deserves opportunities to learn, imagine, and discover their potential. Supporting Pretend City allows them to invest in an organization that strengthens families, promotes healthy early childhood development, and creates a positive impact in the community they proudly call home.
Karina also hopes more people understand that Pretend City is much more than a fun day with the kids.
“Behind every exhibit is a thoughtful mission to prepare children for success through the power of play,” she said. “The museum supports families with educational programs, developmental resources, and an inclusive environment where every child feels welcome.”
That mission resonates with Karina on a personal level. As the only immigrant in her family, building a life and raising her children in Orange County has made her deeply appreciative of organizations that invest in the next generation.
“Pretend City is one of those rare places that brings families together while helping children grow into curious, compassionate, and confident individuals,” she said.
The Pentz family is grateful to support that mission and hopes others will join them in ensuring Pretend City continues to enrich children and families for years to come.
