January 11, 2024
American Legion Post 853: Role in Borrego Springs
Share
Post 853's Role in Empowering Borrego Springs
American Legion Post 853 in Borrego Springs is a branch of the national American Legion, an organization established by Congress in 1919 to support veterans. The Borrego Springs post, which began its service in 1998, is a nonprofit dedicated to aiding veterans, their families, and the community. It's made up of four distinct groups:
- The American Legion (Legion): Comprises veterans from wars and conflicts recognized by Congress.
- The American Legion Auxiliary (Auxiliary): Includes grandmothers, mothers, sisters, wives, and direct female descendants of Legion members.
- Sons of the American Legion (SAL): Consists of sons and adopted sons of Legion members.
- American Legion Riders (Riders): Open to current members of the Legion, Auxiliary, or SAL who meet the motorcycle ownership and insurance requirements.
These groups collaborate to fundraise for veterans and community programs, fostering a sense of family and camaraderie. Fundraising efforts include donations, membership dues, and activities like the Bargain Barn and recycling programs.
Volunteer-led events like Wednesday burger nights and Saturday dinners contribute to these efforts, with all proceeds supporting various programs, including:
- Support for local Boys & Girls Clubs, schools, and little leagues
- Contributions to performing arts and booster clubs
- Assistance for the senior center and student recognition
- Community park and holiday toy drives
- Various veterans' assistance programs such as Fisher House and the Gary Sinise Foundation
Additionally, Post 853 commemorates military service members on Memorial Day and Veterans Day with ceremonies at Christmas Circle and provides military funeral honors upon request. The post also celebrates national observances by displaying flags around the community, with flags available for purchase at the Post.
For a more comprehensive list of their activities and how you can contribute or participate, visiting their official website or contacting them directly would provide the most current and detailed information.
American Legion Post 853
Check out the Post 853 Newsletter
Learn More About Borrego Springs
A Night That Gives Back in Borrego Springs
Located at the Borrego Community Resource Center
Borrego Springs Art Guild Open Studios Visit the BSAG Open Studios Tour in Borrego Springs. Explore 12 artist studios February 14–15 and support local artists and arts education. The BSAG Open Studios Tour invites the public to visit 12 working studios and exhibits across Borrego Springs. Over two days, visitors can see where artists create their work, experience a wide range of styles and media, and purchase original art directly from local artists. Proceeds benefit Borrego Springs artists and students through the Borrego Springs Art Guild Arts Education Scholarship Fund. Dates and Times Friday & Saturday: February 14 & 15 Hours: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tickets $35 per ticket Includes both days of studio visits Ticket Locations (Cash Only) Desert Lovers & Co. 583 Palm Canyon Drive, Suite D Thursday–Sunday, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM The Fudge Factory 590 Palm Canyon Drive, #202 Wednesday–Sunday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Other Purchase Options Checks and credit cards accepted at: Art Guild Luncheon at Rams Hill January 15 February 12 Art in the Park at Christmas Circle January 17 January 31 Community Impact Proceeds support Borrego Springs artists and students through the Borrego Springs Art Guild Arts Education Scholarship Fund . Click poster to download and please share!
Strengthening Health Care in Borrego Springs
Weekly Community Burger Night Burger Night at the American Legion in Borrego Springs is a weekly community tradition that brings locals and visitors together for a casual, affordable meal. Open to the public every Wednesday evening, it’s an easy way to enjoy good food, connect with neighbors, and support a local veterans organization. Here’s what to know if you’re planning to attend. When: Wednesdays, 5:00–6:30 p.m. Where: American Legion Post 853 Address: 4515 Borrego Springs Road, Borrego Springs, CA 92004 Open to the public Burger Night features burgers or hot dogs with all the fixings , served in a relaxed, welcoming setting. The event is designed to be simple, social, and accessible—no membership required. Why Attend Burger Night is more than just dinner. It’s a standing weekly gathering that supports the work of American Legion Post 853 while offering a consistent place for the Borrego Springs community to connect midweek. Visitors staying in Borrego Springs are welcome, making it an easy addition to a Wednesday evening. Supporting Local Veterans By attending Burger Night, guests are also supporting the American Legion’s ongoing efforts on behalf of veterans and the local community. Events like this help keep Post 853 active and engaged year-round. A Simple Midweek Plan If you’re looking for something low-key to do on a Wednesday evening in Borrego Springs, Burger Night at the American Legion is a dependable option—good food, familiar faces, and a welcoming atmosphere. Learn More About Borrego Springs
Holiday Gift Event in Borrego Springs On Sunday, December 14 , families gathered at Christmas Circle for the annual Santa at the Circle Gift Giveaway , a holiday event organized by OLAX – Organización de Latinx de Borrego Springs in collaboration with community partners. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived at the event aboard a Borrego Springs's San Diego County fire truck , while the Grinch made an appearance in a decorated truck , interacting with children throughout the afternoon. Holiday music played during the event, creating a seasonal backdrop as families moved through the activities. The Event was Open to all Families Children met Santa and Mrs. Claus for photos, received a stuffed animal, and then walked through a decorated toy tunnel , where they selected a gift to take home. Free cookies and hot chocolate were provided for everyone. Volunteers assisted with greeting families, guiding children through each station, and supporting gift distribution to ensure that each child received an age-appropriate gift in an organized and efficient way. Volunteers included members of OLAX , Miss Borrego and the Princesses , and S-Interact students , a Rotary–Soroptimist youth service group. Their coordination helped the event run smoothly and safely. The Santa at the Circle Gift Giveaway reflected continued community collaboration in Borrego Springs, bringing together local organizations, volunteers, and families for a shared holiday tradition.
Learn about the Borrego Caregiver Corps, the community need it serves, caregiver training, key benefits, and future plans for supportive programs in Borrego Springs.
Veterans Day Ceremony Honors Service and Sacrifice
Fr. Michael Plekon shares the story of his father’s D-Day heroism and the meaning of courage, faith, and freedom.
