Discover amazing volunteer opportunities, heartwarming stories, and cultural celebrations in this edition of QuickReads!

Celebrating the Fourth Annual Mid-Autumn Festival 

This past Friday, the community came together for the fourth annual Mid-Autumn Festival at the Great Park. Vice Mayor thanks to the South Coast Chinese Cultural Center for co-hosting another wonderful event! He also extends his gratitude to 85C Bakery Cafe, Nothing Bundt Cakes, and Cha for Tea for helping celebrate this cherished tradition!

Know Your Zone

While there is no immediate risk to the City of Irvine from regional wildfires, the City has a "Know Your Zone" campaign to assist residents in identifying their evacuation zones as part of wildfire preparedness efforts. This initiative includes an all-hazard evacuation map and a Hi/Lo siren system to notify the public of necessary evacuation measures. Given the prevalence of natural disasters in Southern California, residents must acquaint themselves with their evacuation zones.

Fiesta at Pretend City

Vice Mayor Agran was delighted to participate in a celebration honoring Pretend City Children's Museum for its remarkable fifteen years of inspiring young minds. He expresses enthusiasm about the museum's upcoming relocation to the Great Park, which is expected to have a significant and positive impact on the community.

He also wishes this extraordinary organization continued success in the years to come and looks forward to their continued partnership. Congratulations are extended to Ellen Pais, Executive Director, and her exceptional team for their dedication and hard work. Happy 15th Birthday, Pretend City!

Help Support the Irvine 2/11 Marines

Support Irvine’s beloved Irvine 2/11 Marine Adoption Committee, Inc. by participating in the Ralphs Community Contribution Program. By registering for this program, Ralphs will donate a percentage of shoppers’ spending to the local non-profit while individuals continue to earn and redeem their rewards as usual. Residents who frequent Ralphs are encouraged to register and share this initiative with friends and neighbors.

To sign up online and obtain further information, CLICK HERE or contact Ralphs customer service at (800) 443-4438.

A reminder: participants must re-register every September to ensure ongoing support.

Sandwiches From The Heart

Last week, the Office of Vice Mayor Agran had the pleasure of meeting Nancy and Mike Salzman, the founders of Sandwiches From The Heart. This outstanding nonprofit organization is dedicated to addressing hunger in our community by providing fresh sandwiches to those in need. However, they cannot accomplish this mission alone; they rely on the support of dedicated volunteers to help prepare the sandwiches.

Together, as a community, we have the opportunity to combat food insecurity and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need. To learn more about this remarkable organization and discover how you can get involved, please visit www.sandwichesfromtheheart.org.

Meals on Wheels Volunteer Opportunity

Age Well Senior Services is currently seeking volunteers to assist with one-hour packing shifts to support the Meals on Wheels program in Irvine, particularly as weekends and upcoming holidays approach. No specific skills are required; a kind heart and a willingness to help are all that is needed. Those interested in making a positive impact are encouraged to sign up today!