From BBQs to Big Events: My Journey to Serving the Community
From BBQs to Big Events: My Journey to Serving the Community
Ten years ago, my wife and I moved to Lake Elsinore seeking a fresh start. After going through the pain of losing our triplets during IVF, we needed a new beginning—a new community to call home. We were eager to meet new faces and build relationships. That’s how our very first neighborhood BBQ came about—a simple gesture to connect with those around us. Little did we know that this would become a cornerstone of who I am today.
Over time, that BBQ grew into something bigger than we could have imagined. From community block parties to organizing the Family Fun Fest, which has now welcomed over 15,000 attendees in its most recent event, I found my passion for bringing people together. And it didn’t stop there—we trademarked the Riverside County Fair so that families can continue to enjoy affordable, family-friendly entertainment for years to come.
Throughout these events, I’ve also worked hard to give back. One of my proudest achievements has been donating nearly 5,000 backpacks to kids who need them the most, through partnerships with local organizations like the Dream Center. But it’s not just about one-time events—it’s about making a long-lasting impact.
To continue this mission, I helped form a nonprofit called Temecula Valley Community Events, which brings together community and commerce to raise funds for kids looking to enter trade schools or CTE programs. I’ve had the privilege of working closely with local businesses and residents, and I know firsthand what this community is asking for: bigger and better brands, improved infrastructure, and more affordable water. But to make this happen, we need to rethink how we operate. Lowering development fees is a crucial first step in accelerating growth and attracting the kind of businesses this community deserves.
On the water side, we need to invest more in water rights. That’s the key to controlling not just the cost but also the quality of our water. To achieve this, I believe it’s essential to look internally at our water district, trim unnecessary expenses, and funnel those savings into infrastructure that sets us up for long-term success.
This community is more than just where I live—it’s where my heart is. From throwing BBQs in my backyard to hosting city-wide events, I’ve seen firsthand what happens when people come together. Now, I want to serve this community in an even more official capacity by ensuring that Lake Elsinore remains a place where families can thrive.
Vote Jason Devor for EVMWD Water Board—because every drop counts, and so does every vote.
