ASEZ WAO volunteers, composed of young adult workers from the World Mission Society Church of God, gathered at Harveston Lake in Temecula, California, on December 14, 2025, for the 9,132nd Worldwide Cleanup Campaign. Their goal was to not only protect the wildlife inhabiting the lake but also to make the park more enjoyable for the countless families who frequently visit. About 25 volunteers from the Torrance and Temecula churches worked together from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. to address growing environmental concerns at the park.
Francisco Felliciano, from ASEZ WAO in Temecula, said, “Since this is a suburban area, there are many families that come and visit the park, so they expect this place to look really nice.”
Serious threat to wildlife
The cleanup effort focused on removing discarded fishing lines and fish hooks that had accumulated around the lake; however, significant amounts of trash were also retrieved from the adjacent planters and bushes. These materials posed a serious threat to wildlife, as animals can become entangled or injured, and they also contribute to water pollution that harms the lake’s ecosystem. For their efforts, the City of Temecula Mayor Brenden Kalfus issued a certificate of appreciation to the volunteers.
ASEZ WAO Campaigns
ASEZ WAO is known for organizing environmental protection activities around the world. This event was in line with ASEZ WAO’s Blue Ocean initiative to protect marine life and fulfill the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal #14: Life Below Water. This campaign aims to raise awareness about responsible fishing practices and the importance of preserving natural marine spaces for both wildlife and the community.
David Gibson, the Overseer of the Temecula church, who helped coordinate the event, echoed one of the major campaigns of ASEZ WAO, saying, “The members worked tirelessly, picking up all kinds of trash such as fishing lines and fishing hooks to help protect the animals in this environment, and to achieve a plastic-free environment by 2040.”
By removing hazardous waste and restoring the area, the volunteers hope to create a safer, cleaner, and more sustainable environment for residents and protect the lake for future generations. The event reflects ASEZ WAO’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and community service.
