Places To Give on Giving Tuesday in Borrego Springs

When the future of the Community Concert Association was uncertain, Bill Wright inspired a path forward through growth, volunteers and community support. As the Borrego Springs Community Concert Association announces its new season, it is worth remembering the people who helped keep this tradition alive. Founded in 1975, the all-volunteer nonprofit brings high-quality, eclectic music to Borrego Springs. Each season includes five public concerts and four free educational concerts for local students. Children are bused to the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center to experience professional live music, and musicians also visit local schools for interactive programs that introduce students to music up close. That tradition almost came to an end. When the Association had fallen on hard times (2015) and was preparing to disband, Bill Wright stepped forward. By reaching out to his many business associates, Bill raised enough money to help save the organization and keep professional musicians coming to the Borrego stage. Among his written correspondence with the board, Bill Wright repeatedly advocated for “growth, not reduction,” encouraged members to “recruit new volunteers” and “develop sponsorship opportunities,” and closed one letter with a promise that captured his commitment: “We will do more than our share to keep the great music series going.”

Sylvia Maas’ nearly 7,000-kilometer ride from Norway to Spain ended after a serious knee injury during the NorthCape–Tarifa adventure.

Discover the military history of Borrego Maneuver Area in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, highlighting its role from 1942 to 1959 as a crucial military training and testing ground.

Explore Borrego Springs' cinematic history with insights into classic films and TV series filmed in this picturesque desert, including "The X-Files." Perfect for film lovers and history buffs.

Providing temporary cooling units while residents repair their air conditioning systems or explore HVAC financing options.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE $10,000 awarded to seven Borrego Springs students pursuing health and wellness careers. Functionally Fit for Life has awarded $10,000 in scholarships to seven Borrego Springs students pursuing careers dedicated to improving the health and well-being of others. Through a partnership with the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund (BVEF) , which served as fiscal sponsor and administrator of the scholarship program, 100 percent of donated funds were distributed directly to scholarship recipients. BVEF waived all administrative fees, ensuring every dollar raised supported local students. Originally established to support students pursuing degrees and careers in kinesiology, exercise science, and nutrition, the scholarship program expanded this year to recognize the strong interest among Borrego students pursuing careers in healthcare. As a result, two scholarship categories were created. Category 1: Kinesiology, Exercise Science, and Nutrition Scholarships ($2,000 each) This year's recipients are: Peter Rodriguez , who recently completed his sophomore year at Palomar College and is pursuing a degree in kinesiology with plans to attend physical therapy school. Angel Vilchis , who earned an associate degree in University Studies in Health and Fitness from Palomar College and plans to transfer to California State University San Marcos to complete a bachelor's degree in kinesiology and pursue a career in physical therapy. Christopher Alcaraz Arias , a recent Borrego Springs High School graduate who plans to attend Palomar College and pursue a degree in kinesiology with the goal of becoming an athletic trainer. Category 2: Healthcare Career Scholarships ($1,000 each) This year's recipients are: Abigail Gonzalez , who completed her freshman year at Chico State University and is completing prerequisite coursework for admission to the university's nursing program. Anavey Gonzalez , a recent Borrego Springs High School graduate who plans to attend California State University Fullerton and pursue a career as an MRI technician. Lylamae Gutierrez , who recently graduated from Borrego Springs High School and is enrolled at Mt. San Jacinto College pursuing a nursing degree. Evelyn Cordova , who recently graduated from Borrego Springs High School and is enrolled at Mt. San Jacinto College studying diagnostic medical sonography. “All seven recipients have chosen a career in which they will have significant positive impacts on people’s lives—physically, mentally and emotionally—and I am thrilled we were able to support them in the pursuit of their dreams,” said Mike Puzzo, founder of Functionally Fit for Life. “What makes philanthropy so meaningful is that it allows a community to invest directly in the dreams, ambitions, and futures of its people,” said Anna ABatzoglou, Executive Director of the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund. “Scholarships like these send a powerful message to students: we see your hard work, we're proud of what you've accomplished, and we're rooting for your success. We're grateful to Functionally Fit for Life for making this opportunity possible and honored to help support these students as they pursue their education and career goals." About Functionally Fit for Life Functionally Fit for Life is dedicated to promoting health, fitness, and wellness while supporting educational opportunities for students pursuing careers in kinesiology, exercise science, nutrition, healthcare, and related fields. About the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund The Borrego Valley Endowment Fund is a community foundation dedicated to improving the quality of life in Borrego Springs through philanthropy, healthcare access, community investment, and strategic partnerships that strengthen the future of the community Learn More Community members interested in learning more about future philanthropic opportunities that support Borrego Springs, are encouraged to contact the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund at info@bvefund.org or at (760)-315-8330.

Celebrating another year of exceptional performances while bringing free concerts to local school children.

The Dutch monarch’s quiet visit to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park remained largely unknown until months later.