Discovering One of Orange County's Best-Kept Secrets

One of the things I enjoy most about Rotary is that every meeting offers the chance to learn something new.

Sometimes it's a conversation about a community project. Other times, it's hearing from people whose work is quietly making a difference right here in Orange County.

This week was one of those meetings.

We had the pleasure of welcoming Danielle Zacherl from the Fullerton Arboretum & Botanical Garden at Cal State Fullerton, who shared the remarkable story behind one of our region's most beautiful and often overlooked community resources.

I'll admit, even after living and working in Orange County for years, I didn't realize just how much the Arboretum offers.

More Than Just a Beautiful Garden

When many people hear the word "arboretum," they picture walking trails and beautiful plants.

While you'll certainly find both, Danielle reminded us that the Fullerton Arboretum is much more than a place to enjoy nature.

It's a living classroom.

A conservation space.

A place where native and endangered plant species are protected for future generations.

It's also a place where students, families, gardeners, and nature lovers can slow down, explore, and learn more about the incredible biodiversity that exists right here in our own backyard.

Knowing that a resource like this exists in Orange County makes you appreciate just how much there is still to discover close to home.

A Place Worth Visiting This Summer

One part of Danielle's presentation that caught everyone's attention was the Arboretum's Evening Strolls, returning this summer.

Imagine spending an evening surrounded by gardens as the sun begins to set, listening to live jazz while enjoying seasonal fruit tastings, sweets, and refreshments.

It sounded less like an event and more like the kind of evening that reminds you to slow down and enjoy where you live.

Upcoming Evening Strolls will take place on:

• July 17 | 5:30–7:30 PM

• August 14 | 5:30–7:30 PM

• September 18 | 5:00–7:00 PM

Whether you're looking for a relaxing evening, a unique date night, or simply an excuse to spend more time outdoors, it's an experience that deserves a spot on your summer calendar.

Learning from the People Who Care for Our Community

One of the reasons Rotary invites guest speakers is to introduce members to organizations that are making a meaningful impact throughout our community.

Danielle's presentation did exactly that.

Her passion for conservation, education, and community engagement was evident from the moment she began speaking. It was a reminder that behind every public garden, nonprofit, or community resource are dedicated people working every day to preserve and improve the places we all enjoy.

Those stories often go untold.

I'm grateful we had the opportunity to hear one of them.

A Reminder to Explore What's Close to Home

It's easy to think we have to travel far to experience something beautiful.

Sometimes, the most memorable places are just a short drive away.

The Fullerton Arboretum & Botanical Garden is one of those places—a peaceful escape, a valuable educational resource, and a reminder of the importance of protecting the natural spaces that enrich our communities.

A heartfelt thank you to Danielle Zacherl for spending the morning with the Rotary Club and sharing the Arboretum's mission and vision with us.

If you've never visited, perhaps this is the summer to change that.

You may discover one of Orange County's hidden gems waiting right in your own backyard.

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Nelida Mora, Winner: Best of Placentia Real Estate Agent/Team in 2024, 2025 & 2026
Placentia Rotary Club Member since 2016 + Member of the Board of Directors
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