Welcome to our first quarterly newsletter!

We are so excited to update you on all that’s happening with Love Mission Viejo!

L O V E Y O U R N E I G H B O R

A Movement of Love in Mission Viejo

In neighborhoods across Mission Viejo, something beautiful is happening. Simple acts of service—sometimes as small as pulling weeds, sometimes as large as transforming entire yards—are renewing hope in the lives of people who need it most. What began as individual projects has grown into a true movement, uniting neighbors, churches, businesses, and volunteers who are choosing to love their city in practical, life-changing ways.

Love Mission Viejo exists to remind every person that they matter. The stories below reflect that deeper purpose: restoring dignity, renewing hope, and making sure no one feels forgotten.

Lives Changed in 2025

One homeowner was nominated by her neighbors after concerns about the condition of her yard. With the support of a Home Depot grant, volunteers transformed both her front and back yards over multiple phases, creating a peaceful space she never imagined could be hers.

Another project, led by a partnering church, served a retired Saddleback teacher. When her yard restoration was complete, she was moved to tears that anyone would care for her in such a meaningful way—especially at no cost. Volunteers then surprised her by painting the front of her home, restoring pride and joy in the place she calls home.

A local veteran also received help after years of overgrowth made his yard unmanageable. Volunteers cleared heavy vegetation, installed new plants and drip irrigation, and refreshed his backyard. One volunteer reflected, “He was so incredibly grateful, but by the end of the day, I think we were the ones who felt most blessed. Helping others changes you.”

Our very first Labors of Love project supported a 72-year-old woman living with a disability whose yard and fencing had fallen into severe disrepair. With help from churches, contractors, neighbors, a Home Depot grant, and generous donors, her property was fully restored. When it was finished, she smiled and said, “Now I can proudly invite neighbors to see my beautiful yard!”

Help Us Multiply the Hope in 2026

These projects reflect the heart of Labors of Love—a community showing up for neighbors who need extra support and reminding them they are not alone. And this is only the beginning. In the year ahead, we hope to expand our reach and multiply these stories throughout Mission Viejo.

There are seniors who can no longer maintain their homes, veterans carrying quiet burdens, and individuals with disabilities who need practical help but don’t know where to turn. We are now seeking nominations for seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities in Mission Viejo who could benefit from a Labors of Love project. If you know someone who needs encouragement, support, or help making their home safe and welcoming again, we would love to hear their story.

Together, we can turn simple acts of service into life-changing hope for our neighbors across Mission Viejo.

REQUEST HELP OR NOMINATE SOMEONE

We invite you to be part of the movement that brings compassion, connection, and care to our community. Monthly Labors of Love service opportunities will take place on the second Saturday of each month beginning in February 14, 2026.

VOLUNTEER