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From Ashes to Achievement - Your Dreams Won't Be Displaced
Attention Eaton Canyon Fire-Impacted Students,
While the Eaton Canyon Fire may have disrupted your path, it cannot derail your dreams. As you prepare to embark on your college or trade school journey, our community stands ready to support you through this pivotal transition.
Through Connect 2 Rise and the incredible generosity of our community partners, we're proud to offer $250 gift cards to help you purchase the essentials you need for success—whether that's dorm room necessities, study materials, personal care items, or transportation to your new campus.
You've shown resilience in the face of adversity. Now let us help you rise.
If you're a Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) graduate who was displaced by the Eaton Canyon Fire and are college or trade school bound, this program is designed specifically for you. These gift cards are our investment in your bright future and a testament to our belief that your educational dreams will not be displaced by this temporary setback.
IMPORTANT DATES: Application Deadline: July 25, 2025
Gift Card Distribution: August 2, 2026
WHO IS ELIGIBLE:
- Graduates of Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) schools
- Students planning to attend college or trade school in 2025
- Those with documentation showing residence in the fire-impacted area and permanent displacement by the Eaton Canyon Fire
This program is made possible through the valued donations from Jack and Jill of America, Inc. - Far West Region and Eaton Fire Law Group.
READY TO APPLY?
Complete the online application by clicking the link below. This brief questionnaire will determine your eligibility for gift card distribution.
Important: This program is exclusively for students displaced by the Eaton Canyon Fire. Our goal is to provide meaningful support to those who need it most.
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Connect 2 Rise offer a range of services designed to combat loneliness and foster supportive and meaningful connections:
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A diverse selection of social gatherings, including coffee mornings, day trips, and art workshops, tailored to provide enjoyable opportunities for people to connect and form supportive relationships.
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Creation of safe, empathetic environments where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued, contributing to a sense of belonging and community.
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Access and opportunity to obtain resources and information to help individuals manage social isolation and improve their overall mental health and well-being.
Our events are designed to not only raise funds but also to increase awareness and foster a sense of community.
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of adults say they have experienced feelings of loneliness at least once a week over the past year
of adults say they have experienced feelings of loneliness everyday
of Americans aged 18-34 saying they were lonely every day or several times a week
Help Keep Doors Open for Connection and Community!
At Connect 2 Rise, we believe everyone deserves a welcoming place to connect and feel supported. Our Friendship Safe Space provides just that—a refuge from loneliness, where meaningful relationships are built.
We need your help to keep our doors open and grow. Your donation will:
- Secure our community space
- Equip it with essential furniture and technology
- Support skilled coordinators to run programs and events
By contributing, you’re offering hope and connection to those who need it most.Donate today and help build a stronger, more connected community. Together, we can make a difference!
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***Our fiscal sponsor is 501(c)(3) nonprofit Institute for Education, Research, and Scholarships (IFERS). Your support is greatly appreciated as we work towards creating a more connected and resilient society."***
Thank you for considering Connect 2 Rise Inc. for your contribution!
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