By Charles Warren, Contributing Writer
In a spirited display of community solidarity, many residents gathered on March 22, 2025, at Cesar Chavez Elementary (1401 S 40th St, San Diego) for the Community Creek Cleanup Day. Organized jointly by the Harvey Family Foundation, San Diego Unified School District’s Cesar Chavez Elementary, and San Diego FC, the event was a resounding call for neighbors to “work together, restore, heal, and grow.”
“It’s been a year since the flood, and we’re still here helping to rebuild, we’re still here to help prevent, we’re still here to beautify the community because it’s a beautiful area and we keep it that way,” Harvey proclaimed. “Bringing people together just shows the collaborative efforts that everybody is making in this community. You know, nobody told us to do it, nobody’s paying us to do it. It’s just something that we’re doing from the bottom of our hearts to show that the community is important to us.”
The day’s activities centered around cleaning up the Southcrest Recreation Center and stretches of the Chollas Creek, areas that have long been the heart of community life but were in dire need of attention following last year’s devastating flood. Volunteers, ranging from young children to senior citizens, enthusiastically engaged in removing debris and sprucing up the park spaces. All necessary cleanup tools were provided by the event organizers, ensuring that every participant could contribute safely and effectively.
The event not only focused on physical rejuvenation but also on fostering community spirit and dialogue. Among those who spoke out was Robert Michel, a 66-year-old longtime resident who has called this neighborhood home for 27 years. A veteran who served 10 years as a paratrooper, Michel used the platform to raise concerns about the perceived lack of support from local government.
“I would like for you to do for us what we’re doing today: come clean up our park, clean up our streets, and bring resources,” Michel stated firmly. “And stop redlining this community. WE HAVE BEEN LEFT BEHIND.”
“Today’s event is a testament to what can be achieved when community organizations, schools, and families come together,” a San Diego FC representative commented. “We believe in the power of unity and are proud to support this initiative that encourages civic pride and environmental stewardship.”
In a world too often divided, the events of March 22nd served as a powerful testament to the strength of unity and the impact of collective action. This day will be remembered not just for the heartfelt speeches and dedicated community efforts, but for the lasting spirit of hope and progress it ignited.
