As we commemorate 50 years of the Vietnamese community, we invite you to be part of a special reflection—an opportunity to honor the journey, resilience, and humanity of those who lived it.
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In the spirit of bridging histories and fostering understanding, empathy, and shared belonging, we are proud to present the I Was There project—a growing collection of personal stories from ordinary Vietnamese individuals whose lives were forever shaped by displacement, survival, and the quiet strength it took to rebuild.
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Through their reflections, you’ll witness not just hardship, but also the acts of kindness that carried them forward, and the deep gratitude that continues to shape their contributions to the communities they now call home.
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We warmly invite you to explore these stories and join us in honoring the lived experiences that make up this rich and enduring tapestry.
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Thank you for standing with us in remembrance, in learning, and in connection.
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619-362-6066
Community Planting Day
Join us for a Community Planting Day at the Boat People Garden
This Saturday, July 5th
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM | 4555 El Cajon Blvd.
Let’s come together to plant, grow, and beautify this special space honoring resilience and community.
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All garden tools, plants, and supplies will be provided.
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Light snacks and beverages will be available.
Everyone of all ages is welcome—no experience needed!
Bring your friends, family, and your love for nature!
Let's go
Camping
YOU ARE INVITED: Family and Youth Camping Trip | Aug 1-3
Get ready for an unforgettable weekend in nature!
Join us for a 3-day youth camping trip filled with fun, friendship, and fresh air.
✅ All meals provided – free of charge
✅ Camping gear available to borrow – also free
✅ Private campground – just for our group
✅ Safe and secure – guarded by 2 martial arts masters
Open to all students and youth – first-time campers are welcome!
Come connect, explore, and make memories that last a lifetime.
Research Survey
As we commemorate 50 years of the Vietnamese community, we are reflecting on how far we’ve come—and where we hope to go.
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We invite you to take part in a community
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assessment survey to help us better understand:
🌟 What do you see as the most significant accomplishments of the Vietnamese community over the past 50 years?
🌱 What are your hopes and dreams for the next 50 years?
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Your insights will help guide future projects, preserve our shared history, and shape the vision for a
stronger, more connected Vietnamese community.
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Let your voice be heard. Help us honor the past and imagine the future—together.
619-362-6066
Umbrella Trees
Next project on the Little Saigon Revitalization Initiatives is the Umbrella Tree with a mission to tagibilizing the intangible cultural assets that make up the identity, character, and customs of Little Saigon District. To do this, we aim to bring to life the inspirations stories and journeys of Vietnamese Americans immigrants that contributed to the identity, characters, and customs of the Little Saigon District. Approximately 20 unique stories will be engraved on 20 plaques, to be installed on 20 urban street planters, and will be placed within the 6-block stretch of the Little Saigon District of San Diego. The planter will feature an umbrella tree growing out of it. These planters with umbrella trees are currently being design by Tecture Design and Fabrication.
Good News!
Good News! LED Lights Coming to the Umbrella Trees 🌳💡
We’re excited to share that LED lights will soon be installed on the Umbrella Trees—thanks to your voices and input!
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Several months ago, Little Saigon San Diego, in collaboration with APAC of Hoover High School, conducted a community assessment survey to better understand what matters most to you. One of the top requests we received was clear: more lighting on sidewalks for a safer and more inviting environment.
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As part of our ongoing Little Saigon Revitalization Initiatives, we’re committed to transforming public sidewalks and city streets into vibrant, welcoming spaces that reflect the spirit and needs of our community. These LED lights will be powered by our very own solar energy system, promoting sustainability and environmentally friendly solutions.
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This project is a direct result of your feedback—and a testament to what’s possible when community voices lead the way.
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Thank you for helping us shape a brighter, safer, and more beautiful Little Saigon!
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619-362-6066
Boat People Garden
Boat People Garden is a small mini park / public open space by convert an under-utilized private property and integrate with existing pedestrian pathways for an innovative public space complete with sitting areas, resting benches, and landscaping gardens. The garden will include an interactive sculpture of Vietnamese Boat People dedicated to the courage, determination and willpower of the many Vietnamese refugees who never yielded to suppression and to honor those refugees who perished while still holding onto the dream of freedom. This mini park will be the first in an ongoing series of Little Saigon Revitalization Initiatives to redefine and transform public sidewalks and city streets into public gathering areas and reshaping the sidewalk experience.
This project is supported in part by:
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The California Arts Council, a state agency. Learn more at This activity is supported in part by the California Arts Council, a state agency. Learn more at www.arts.ca.gov.
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The San Diego Foundation
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Price Philanthropies
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Anticipated completion date
June 30, 2025
Be Kind
Take a plea for Kindness today!
A small act of kindness can brighten someone’s whole day—and it costs us nothing. Whether it’s a smile, a gentle word, or a moment of patience, kindness in our everyday routine creates ripples of warmth and connection. Choose kindness—it’s a quiet strength that makes the world softer, one moment at a time.
Be Kind Today
