Since the inception of locally owned Guarantee Shoe Center in 1953 on the corner of 21st and Chester Avenue in downtown Bakersfield, it's been a family affair. Third generation owner, Rosco Rolnick carries on the proud tradition that his grandfather Nat Slepyan started many years ago. The philosophy was simple, "We care about our customers, our employees and our community". That mindset continues today under the watchful eye of Rosco. Rosco has an eye for detail and it shows in every aspect of the business. From the hand painted mural on the south exterior depicting turn of the century Bakersfield to the colorful hand painted floors inside the store that seem to guide the customer through an elaborate display of shoes and accessories. Shopping at Guarantee Shoe Center is a unique and gratifying experience! According to Rosco, "Something that my grandfather started from day one, we put an emphasis on service. We measure the customer's feet to ensure maximum comfort. We carry very large inventory of name brand shoes in almost every size. What we don't have, we'll be glad to special order ."

Customers have rewarded Guarantee Shoe Center with their loyalty and so has the staff. Not only is the store a nice place to shop, it is also a nice place to work. There's never a dull moment at Guarantee Shoe Center. New merchandise arrives daily. Even regular customers are tantalized with new shoes and accessories almost every time they enter the store.
The well trained sales staff can answer just about any question regarding product in English or in Spanish. Guarantee Shoe Center has always been an important part of the community. Respected by his peers, Rosco served as chairman of the United Shoe Retailers Association. Locally he served on the board of the Downtown Business Association. Rosco even did his share of square knots while serving as scoutmaster.

Perhaps his greatest gift to the community is Guarantee Shoe Center's "Shoes for Our Homeless" program. Over 100,000 pairs of shoes have been donated to the Bakersfield Homeless Center in the last 32 years. Giving to others is second nature to Rosco. His Shoes for the Homeless program got the attention of the national program, Soles for Souls. They were so impressed with Rosco's successful program that they implemented many of his ideas into their campaign! Even this kind of success has come at a price. The store as endured earthquakes, a devastating fire in 1970 and a tour of duty for Rosco in Vietnam. "What doesn't kill you usually makes you stronger" said Rosco with a smile. Now Rosco's daughter Sarah has joined the ranked of the employed at Guarantee Shoe Center.