In a shining example of community collaboration, the Tempe South and the Mesa West Rotary Club, in partnership with the Westwood High School Rotary Interact Club, completed an extensive beautification project at the Mesa Community College Rose Garden — the largest public rose garden in the Desert Southwest.
Over the course of several months, more than 30 dedicated volunteers rolled up their sleeves to restore and enhance key features of the garden. The project was supported by a $5,000 grant written together by Mesa West Rotary and the Tempe South Rotary Clubs, which funded much-needed improvements to preserve and uplift the garden’s aesthetic and structural integrity.
Rotary and Interact volunteers committed their time and talent to: *Concrete curb repair and resurfacing
* Irrigation system modifications for water efficiency
* Weeding and landscape restoration
* Painting of surrounding walls and the central kiosk structure
"This initiative reflects Rotary’s commitment to local community service and environmental stewardship, aligning with its global mission of 'Service Above Self," said GE Paulus, president of the Rotary Club of Mesa West. The Mesa Rose Garden, a joint project of Mesa Community College and the Mesa-East Valley Rose Society, is a treasured space visited by thousands each year for its beauty, tranquility, and educational value.
To keep spirits high during volunteer days, Jon Scott Williams of the Mesa Rotary Club generously provided burritos, water, and juice to all participants—a much-appreciated gesture that helped fuel the hard work and camaraderie of the teams.
"We are proud of the teamwork that made this project a success," said Mr. Paulus. "The Rose Garden is a jewel of our city, and we’re honored to help ensure it remains vibrant for generations to come." A dedication celebration was held May 30. A plaque recognizing Rotary's involvement in the project was unveiled. “We wanted to make the garden more attractive and inviting for Rotarians, students and visitors to a green open space,” said Dennis Rogers, president of the Rotary Club of Tempe South, which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. The garden, he says, supports tourism in the area and provides a space for relaxation, reflection and mental rejuvenation. “We’re very glad to have been involved with the renovations to the Rose Garden Project and are thankful to everyone for their help with the funding and to all the volunteers,” said Mr. Rogers. |
