May 7, 2025

Eddie Rivera: Supporting Dreams

This blog is based on the original article “From Borrego Springs to Changemaker: Edward Rivera’s Journey ”

How Eddie Rivera Uplifts Young People Through Scholarships

In Borrego Springs, Eddie Rivera’s journey from student to advocate is inspiring the next generation. Readers will learn how Eddie’s life was transformed by scholarships, mentorship, and community support — and how he is giving back by championing education for LGBTQ+ youth through the San Diego Foundation and the National Rainbow College Fund. His story shows how resilience and local roots can spark change far beyond the desert.

A Journey from Borrego Springs to Advocacy

Growing up in the desert community of Borrego Springs, Eddie Rivera experienced firsthand the strength of a close-knit town. After graduating Borrego Springs High School in 2018, he headed to Cal Poly Humboldt in search of both distance and discovery. There, he found a passion for social justice and a supportive academic home in Critical Race, Gender, and Sexuality Studies.

Scholarships That Changed a Life

Navigating college was financially challenging, but thanks to the Weil Family Foundation Scholarship through the San Diego Foundation, Eddie found the stability to thrive. Introduced by a local counselor, Eddie’s scholarship experience showed him how powerful it is when a community invests in its young people.

Giving Back to Borrego Springs

After college, Eddie returned to Borrego Springs and worked for BASIC (Basic Assistance to Students in the Community), launching a literacy program to support local families. Today, he serves on the Borrego Springs Community Resource Center board and volunteers with the San Diego Foundation’s scholarship committee, directly impacting students who walk a path he once traveled.

A New Chapter: The National Rainbow College Fund

In 2024, Eddie helped review applications for the newly launched National Rainbow College Fund — a scholarship supporting LGBTQ+ students, even those not publicly out. His personal connection to the fund’s mission underscores his lifelong commitment to creating space and opportunities for marginalized students.

Continuing the Story at San Diego State University

Currently pursuing his master’s degree at San Diego State University, Eddie is focusing his research on queer experiences in rural desert communities. His work highlights untold stories and builds bridges of visibility for small-town youth, proving that where you come from can be your greatest strength.

Read the Full Story

Read the full article to learn more about how Eddie, San Diego Foundation, and the National Rainbow College Fund are creating lasting change!

From Borrego Springs to Changemaker: Edward Rivera’s Journey

Read the full story on www.sdfoundation.org.

Borrego Springs Blood Drive

April 10, 2026

Donate Blood, April 30 A community blood drive is scheduled at Borrego Springs High School on Thursday, April 30, 2026. Hosted in partnership with the San Diego Blood Bank, the event offers residents an opportunity to donate locally and support regional medical needs. Donors will receive a limited-edition Disney Goofy T-shirt while supplies last. Event Details Date: Thursday, April 30, 2026 Time: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM Location: High School Gym Parking Lot Cahuilla Road Borrego Springs, CA 92004 Appointments are encouraged, though walk-ins are accepted. Donors should bring a photo ID, be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, and arrive hydrated. How to Participate Appointments can be scheduled online at sandiegobloodbank.org/donate or by calling (619) 400-8251. A QR code is also available on event materials for quick access. Blood donations collected at local drives support hospitals across the region, making community participation an important part of maintaining a stable blood supply.

Creative Workshop Begins in Salton City

April 8, 2026

Creative Workshop Begins

Christmas Circle Park Borrego Volunteer-Run Community Park

April 7, 2026

Volunteer-Run Community Park Christmas Circle Community Park sits at the center of Borrego Springs and remains one of the most recognized public spaces in the area. The park was established in the early 1950s when the DiGiorgio family donated the land in honor of Alphonse A. Burnand, tying the space directly to the early development of Borrego Springs. A Park Run by Volunteers Today, the park is managed by a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization led by a volunteer board of directors. The organization is supported through grants and donations from both residents and visitors who use the park. Jeff Sloan, president of the board, said, “There’s a group of people who really love the park and they put their effort into making it a wonderful place to visit.” What It Takes to Maintain the Park Maintaining Christmas Circle is an ongoing responsibility. The board oversees landscaping, lawn care, tree trimming, and water management to keep the grass maintained throughout the year. The park also provides regularly cleaned public restrooms, requiring daily attention and consistent upkeep.

Marcia Forman Band – Free Concert | Sunday, April 12, 2026

April 6, 2026

Marcia Forman Band at Library The Marcia Forman Band will perform a free concert in Borrego Springs on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at 3:00 PM at the Borrego Springs Public Library. Presented by the Borrego Springs Community Concert Association , the performance features music from the Great American Songbook. The program includes a range of styles such as show tunes, pop, swing, bebop, rhythm and blues, and contemporary selections. Free Community Concert This event is open to the public and offers an opportunity to experience live music in a casual setting. The Borrego Springs Community Concert Association continues to provide accessible performances for residents and visitors throughout the season. What to Expect Attendees can expect a mix of familiar songs and diverse musical styles performed by an experienced group of musicians. The concert is designed to appeal to a wide audience, whether listening for enjoyment or exploring different genres of American music.

Easter Sunrise Service Borrego Springs

April 6, 2026

Easter Sunrise Service Borrego Springs The annual Easter Sunrise Service in Borrego Springs took place on Easter morning behind the United Methodist Church on Church Lane. Hosted each year by the Borrego Ministers Association, the outdoor service brought together local congregations, residents, and visitors for a shared Easter gathering at sunrise. Annual Easter Sunrise Service in Borrego Springs The Easter Sunrise Service is a long-standing community tradition in Borrego Springs. Held outdoors at sunrise, the service offers a shared way for people to gather on Easter morning in a peaceful desert setting. What Is the Borrego Ministers Association The Borrego Ministers Association is a group of local faith leaders and caring community members who work together to support Borrego Springs. The association helps coordinate shared services, community events, and outreach efforts throughout the year, including the annual Easter Sunrise Service. A Community Gathering at Sunrise Residents and visitors gathered early, bringing chairs and dressing for the cool desert morning. The service brought people together in one outdoor setting for Easter morning. The annual sunrise service continues to reflect community participation and cooperation in Borrego Springs.

Pizza in Borrego Springs: Top Local Spots

By Jake Hinton • April 6, 2026

Discover freshly made pizza in Borrego Springs at Carlee’s and Calico’s, two family-run spots offering delicious options for both vegetarians and meat lovers in casual, welcoming settings.

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