The Citizen of the Year Grove was dedicated in September 2005 to recognize recipients of the Laguna Niguel Citizen of the Year Award. This prestigious award was established in 1990 as a joint project of Laguna Niguel service organizations. It recognizes individuals who have demonstrated outstanding voluntary service to the community, making Laguna Niguel a better place to live and work. Award recipients have given unselfishly of themselves through volunteer work that includes charitable, humanitarian and/or other outstanding or heroic service in Laguna Niguel.
Each year, an honoree is selected by a committee comprised of past Citizen of the Year recipients. Nominations are accepted by the committee from members of the community, service organizations and other interested parties. Individuals receiving this honor are awarded a plaque that is installed along the tree lined pathway that winds through the Citizen of the Year Grove.
The Citizen of the Year Grove is planted as an allée using Crape Mrytle Trees (variety “Natchez”) behind each plaque. The curved allée concludes with a breathtaking view of Saddleback Mountains and our labyrinth. Sea Lavendar and Ceanothus poke through the groundcover of Santa Barbara Daisy and purple Lantana. Lower blooms peak here in early spring through early summer but continue with an impressive Crape Myrtle bloom display from mid-summer through early fall.
“During my years being actively involved with the Preserve I have seen it grow literally and figuratively. Thousands of plants were planted, pathways constructed and Boy Scout and Girl Scout areas were developed. The Preserve is a real treasure in Laguna Niguel. I would like to acknowledge the City of Laguna Niguel for its generous support over the years and the many volunteers who made it all possible.”
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