Rising Scholars: Spreading Holiday Cheer and Breaking Down Barriers

The Porterville College Rising Scholars Program is dedicated to supporting justice-impacted students by removing barriers and building a strong sense of community. True to this mission, the program recently extended its reach beyond the classroom to support the families of some of our most vulnerable students.

Over the past several weeks, Rising Scholars delivered care packages to the families of students currently residing in the Tulare County Juvenile Detention Facility. This initiative was designed to bring relief and holiday spirit to families navigating the challenges of the justice system.

The success of this effort was made possible through powerful campus collaborations. Working alongside the PC Pirate Pantry team, the VP of Student Services Erin Wingfield, and PC President, Primavera Monarrez, Rising Scholars developed and implemented a new, inclusive system that ensures that students residing in residential facilities now have equal access to essential on-campus supports, such as the Pirate Pantry, bridging the gap between campus resources and remote students.

The spirit of giving was further amplified by the PC Aggies, who collected a variety of canned food items to donate to these families.

"Rising Scholars is extremely grateful for a community that supports and embodies the meaning of inclusiveness," the team shared.

We are proud of this amazing community effort, showcasing what can be achieved when we come together to support every student’s journey.