Sandals Church plans 'Dear California' volunteer effort

By Kelvin Portillo, Correspondent

Sandals Church of Menifee will host an event named “Dear California,” in which they will execute numerous projects to help improve the community on April 9 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

From park clean-ups to graffiti removal, all 13 Sandals Church campuses across Southern California will participate in the movement for the same mission in mind, which is to show love and care for their respective city. “Dear California” isn’t about conveying a religious message, nor does one need to be a member of the church. Instead, the intent is to bring people together.

“The idea is a love letter to our community. It doesn’t matter what side of the religious or political leaning you’re in; we are ready to mobilize and serve our community,” said Pastor Rocky Stone.

Sandals Church is searching for volunteers of any age, but parent or legal guardian is required if a minor is signing up, willing to engage in projects. Roadway beautification, free haircuts for low-income families, outreach to local homeless and women shelters, and net repairs at city parks are just a few activities set up for this movement. Anyone can sign up at sandalschurch.com/dearcalifornia and there is a $10 fee to attend that will go towards lunch and a shirt.

Since this is a large effort to serve the community, Sandals has partnered with various Menifee organizations, including Menifee PD, Boys & Girls Club of Menifee, and county officials. Several community members have donated items to be used for the movement.

Anyone needing motivation or a song to listen to while volunteering may download the Sandals original song “Dear California” on Spotify or Apple Music.

“California needs community, needs love and this is an opportunity to show that. Let’s reintroduce people back to the community. It’s a half day to serve and love,” remarked Pastor Stone on asked what the movement means to him and the church.