Welcome to FLORECER Yuma, AZ
At FLORECER, we believe that postsecondary education attainment is a springboard for individual growth and social and economic prosperity. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a universal application that accredited colleges and universities throughout the nation use to equip students with essential resources, fueling college access, affordability, persistence, and attainment. Yet, Arizona's college enrollment and completion rates for rural, historically underserved students are among the lowest in the state. Arizona ranks nearly last among 50 states in the nation for FAFSA completion rates. Other factors such as the digital divide, learning loss as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic, and chronic absenteeism in the K-12 public school system widen the postsecondary education attainment gap. Arizona can and must do better to guide our youth and create college and career pathways that lead to economic stability and meaningful careers that contribute to a strong and vibrant economy.
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As a first-generation college student, I know first-hand the many challenges students face when it comes to paving a pathway to higher education. ​With nearly a decade of experience in student services, financial aid administration, and Division 1 NCAA compliance at the nation's top public university, UCLA- I was inspired to create a space uniquely designed to guide our youth, break cycles of poverty, and increase postsecondary education attainment in the rural, southern border community of Yuma County, AZ.
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I founded FLORECER to foster a flourishing, resilient community made stronger through the education attainment of our youth. FLORECER supports youth to reach their full potential and flourish!
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Audren Morris-Sandoval, MPP
Founder & Executive Director
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The FLORECER program fosters a college-going culture and increases college access and preparedness for adolescent youth by equipping and empowering students and parents with the knowledge, skills, and tools to navigate pathways to higher education.
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FLORECER's programs and services increase the knowledge, trajectory, and preparedness to pursue higher education. FLORECER offers comprehensive college readiness and parent engagement programming. In addition, FLORECER provides opportunities to enhance digital skills, engage in pro-social activities, participate in college campus visits, practice civic engagement, and benefit from meaningful peer mentorship opportunities. ​
FLORECER programs and services are prioritized for students who are from low and very low-income households who have been historically underserved, adjudicated youth (justice involved), youth in foster care, migrant students, and students who have chronic absenteeism and/or who have suffered learning loss as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic.
COLLABORATIVE PARTNERSHIPS
​FLORECER partners with high schools throughout Yuma County to equip students and their families with the tools, skills, and knowledge to increase college readiness.​
FLORECER delivers youth programming and activities on topics such as:
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Understanding College Options
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Navigating the College Admissions Application Process
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Applying for Financial Aid & Scholarships
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Digital Literacy
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Understanding College Costs & Affordability
