On Saturday October 5, 2024, the Citadel Outlets and the City of Commerce came together for an inspiring community event that left a lasting impact on our local environment. Citadel Outlets’ Clean Up Commerce event, organized by Citadel Outlets in collaboration with local non-profit organizations, saw over a hundred volunteers gather to beautify our beloved city.
The event focused on areas surrounding two of Commerce’s most prominent landmarks: Citadel Outlets and Commerce Casino. Volunteers from various local non-profits joined forces to remove litter, clean and revitalize public spaces, demonstrating the power of community action. Commerce Casino played a significant role by captaining a team of volunteers, further emphasizing the collaborative spirit of the event.

provided by Ruby’s Diner
Ruby’s Diner, a beloved restaurant at Citadel Outlets, played a crucial role in supporting the event. They provided volunteers with delicious breakfast burritos in the early morning, ensuring everyone started the day with energy and enthusiasm. After the clean-up concluded, Ruby’s Diner continued their support by offering a satisfying lunch to all participants, showcasing their commitment to community involvement and corporate social responsibility.
The Clean Up Commerce event not only improved the appearance of our city but also fostered a strong sense of community pride. Participants worked together, forging new connections and strengthening existing ones. This collaborative effort showcased the power of unity in making a tangible difference in our local area.
The event aligns perfectly with the City of Commerce’s ongoing efforts to create a more vibrant and engaged community. By bringing together residents, businesses, and local organizations, Clean Up Commerce demonstrated how collective action can transform our shared spaces and enhance our quality of life.

and City Manager Ernie Hernandez
The event was graced by the presence of key Commerce city officials who welcomed everyone to the clean-up initiative. Mayor Hugo A. Argumedo, Councilmember Kevin Lainez, and City Manager Ernie Hernandez were in attendance, demonstrating the city’s strong commitment to community engagement and environmental stewardship.
The success of Clean Up Commerce has inspired plans for similar events in the future. Non-profit organizations involved in the initiative are already discussing potential follow-up activities to maintain the momentum generated by this community-wide effort.
As we reflect on the accomplishments of this remarkable day, it’s clear that the Clean Up Commerce event has set a new standard for community engagement in our city. It serves as a shining example of what can be achieved when residents, businesses, and local organizations come together for a common cause.
The success of Clean Up Commerce was greatly enhanced by the participation of several dedicated non-profit organizations and local groups. We extend our sincere appreciation to the Sheriff Youth Foundation, Girl Scouts, Montebello High School Baseball team, El Rancho Track & Field team, Commerce Crush Volleyball, El Rancho High School Cheer squad, U.S. Naval Sea Cadets, Commerce Boys & Girls Water Polo team, and Commerce Performing Arts. These diverse groups brought energy, enthusiasm, and a strong sense of community spirit to the event. Their involvement not only contributed to the clean-up efforts but also showcased the power of youth engagement and the importance of fostering a sense of civic responsibility among our younger generations. The collaboration between these organizations exemplifies the strength of our community and sets a positive example for future community-driven initiatives.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers, non-profit organizations, and Ruby’s who made this event possible. Your dedication to improving our community is truly commendable. Let’s continue to work together to keep Commerce clean, green, and thriving!
For those who missed this event, stay tuned for future community initiatives. Remember, every small action counts in making Commerce a better place to live, work, and shop. Visit Citadel Outlets to learn more about upcoming community events and how you can get involved in shaping the future of our city.