Nonprofit supports Yuma and Imperial students on college journey
Adrik Vargas
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – Florecer is opening doors to higher education for students who might otherwise feel shut out.
The nonprofit launched in 2024 and focuses on mentoring migrant, Indigenous, and first-generation students, as well as youth in the juvenile justice system. Its mission is to guide families in Yuma and Imperial County through the often complicated process of getting to college.
“The students that have been left behind and left out of opportunities. It’s not because theyre not qualified. It’s not because they are not capable. It’s because they don’t have the information,” said founder Audren Morris-Sandoval.
That support can mean help with FAFSA applications, college visits, and building digital skills. Florecer also partners with Arizona Western College to bring in federal work study students who serve as peer advisors.
“Through a partnership with Arizona Western College, we hire federal work study students that serve as peer advisors. These are students with real time college experience that can help walk the students through,” Morris-Sandoval said.
Recently, the nonprofit began using artificial intelligence as part of its programming. Students learn how to use AI prompts to write and refine their own stories for college applications.
“Campuses want to know who is the student that I’m bringing to campus. Why should I give this student an opportunity to be on our campus? And so being able to tell their story is very powerful,” Morris-Sandoval said.
For her, the work goes beyond college applications. She sees it as a way to strengthen the community.
“This is something that can bring us all together and be together on the same page, working to make sure that students have college opportunities,” she said.
Florecer’s message is clear: College is not just for someone else. It’s for local students right here at home.