A Labor of Love and Community Outreach

Keep the Esplanade Beautiful (KEB), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Redondo Beach, CA, has been holding monthly “1st Saturday Sweep” cleanups along the Esplanade since 2012. Founded by local resident Joan Irvine, KEB began as a grassroots effort born out of frustration with seeing litter and dog waste along one of Redondo Beach’s most cherished natural treasures. Early volunteers included dedicated residents John Perchulyn, Mike Kassel, and the late Mary Sue Friese (RIP).

KEB’s story, however, began even earlier—with the Leadership Redondo Class of 2008, where Irvine first cultivated her passion for civic engagement. From the beginning, Leadership Redondo alumni played an important role in KEB’s development. Irvine consulted with fellow alumnus John LeRock, then the City’s Director of Community Services, for early guidance. Athens Services was its first sponsor; this provided KEB with the financial resources to design its logo and begin its expanded community outreach.

A few years later, recognizing the need for more community outreach and fundraising, Irvine reconnected with Nina Zak Laddon (Leadership Redondo ’08), founder of Friends of Redondo Beach Arts. Together, they hosted a plein air art event, with the resulting works forming the centerpiece of one of KEB’s first silent auctions. (Watch the event video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jB0kI6tHf4)

Fast forward to 2025: E.J. Caldwell, General Manager of the West Basin Water District and another Leadership Redondo ’08 alum, offered to donate water bottle refill stations for installation along the Esplanade—furthering KEB’s mission of sustainability and community wellness.

Redondo Beach owes a heartfelt thank you to the many volunteers, residents, and organizations that participate in KEB’s monthly cleanups. This year, the local music community has stepped up to amplify outreach efforts. In addition to the BeachLife Festival once again donating 3-day GA passes for the silent auction, local musicians Brent George and Fritz Lewak have donated their talents to produce a musical video celebrating Esplanade cleanup efforts. The video will premiere at the KEB Annual Community Mixer.

The Esplanade is much more than a street—it’s the heart of our coastal community. A clean, beautiful Esplanade benefits everyone who enjoys it—whether walking, running, biking, or simply pausing to take in the breathtaking views of the ocean, dolphins, surfers, swimmers, and boats. Thousands experience the health and wellness benefits of being by the sea.

But beyond its beauty, the Esplanade is also a place of connection—where friends meet, neighbors chat, and community is built. These moments of human connection strengthen our mental health and sense of belonging. It’s also a gateway to the beach and to Riviera Village, welcoming residents and visitors alike. Its beauty reflects who we are as a city and the pride we take in caring for our shared environment.

With the 2028 Olympics (LA28) on the horizon, a vibrant and well-maintained Esplanade will play an even greater role in supporting the economic health and image of Redondo Beach. Although KEB began simply as a cleanup effort, it now recognizes its broader impact—enhancing public art, promoting sustainability, and contributing to the city’s economic vitality. (Watch Paul Krekorian, Executive Director of the Office of LA Major Events, discuss the economic impact of LA28: https://youtu.be/CyPhNSvGRhM)

Let’s continue to protect and celebrate this priceless gem along our coast.

Support Keep the Esplanade Beautiful by attending the Annual Community Mixer on October 22.

For details and registration, visit: https://keeptheesplanadebeautiful.org/2025-mixer