-Editorial
The El Centro Rotary Club is proposing to adopt a city-owned pocket park at the corner of Eighth and Vine streets as part of an effort to create a space for civic engagement, community gatherings and neighborhood activities.
According to materials presented to the city, the project would transform the site into a pilot community park designed to host pop-up events, public activities and other neighborhood programs while promoting walkability and community connections.
El Centro Rotary Club President Brandon Lee said the park renovation is being led by a team of Rotarians that includes Jennifer Thomason, Frank Miranda, Annette Leon, Refugio Torres and himself.
“Our goal is to create a welcoming community gathering place that reflects the values of service, peace and civic pride,” Lee said.
The project includes Rotarian signage recognizing the club’s contribution, a Peace Pole bearing the message “May Peace Prevail on Earth” in multiple languages, and new landscaping featuring Arizona ash, Chinese pistachio and Indian rosewood trees to provide seasonal color and shade. Lee said the club is partnering with the city’s Parks and Recreation Department to transform the site into a lasting community landmark.
Lee, who was recently installed to lead the club for the 2026-27 Rotary year, said he looks forward to expanding the organization’s impact through community partnerships and service projects.
Project documents describe the park as a potential model for future infill parks throughout El Centro. Its location near single-family and multifamily neighborhoods, Harding School, Bucklin Park, and a major arterial street is intended to encourage public participation and provide a venue for neighborhood events.
Founded in 1921, the El Centro Rotary Club is one of the oldest service organizations in Imperial Valley. Chartered by the Rotary Club of San Diego, it was the first Rotary club sponsored by that organization.
The El Centro Club’s rich history is tied closely to the City’s own past, including being known for meeting at the legendary Barbara Worth Hotel in Downtown El Centro before it was lost to fire. Now after a century of its existence, El Centro Rotary remains on the leading edge of serving the community and the world. In both volunteer service and through extensive philanthropy.
Rotary International’s mission is to provide service, promote integrity, and advance goodwill and peace through fellowship among business, professional, and community leaders.
