By Mira Radovich, Senior Contributing Writer
As 2025 comes to a close, it’s a natural time to look back at the moments that strengthened our connection to the communities we serve. At Rio Salado College, “giving back” isn’t just something we do— it’s part of who we are.
Whether we’re supporting students, lifting up local partners, or using our expertise to meet real-world needs, our mission extends far beyond the classroom. These efforts not only helped the people around us— they also reminded us of the power of education to inspire positive change.
“The heart of what we do at Rio Salado is serve people,” said President Kate Smith. “Every time our students, faculty, and employees step up for the community, it reminds us why education matters. These moments show how learning and service work together to strengthen lives.”
East Valley Rotaract Food Drive
One standout effort came from the East Valley Rotaract Club at Rio Salado College, which held a November food drive to help address hunger in our community.
"No one should go hungry if our village has the resources to nourish the community,” said Goldie Johnson-Pompey, East Valley Rotaract club president. “Access to food gives individuals hope and strength, which can lead to focus in classrooms and at work and better mental health."
Collection boxes were placed throughout the college’s Tempe location, and donations were donated to the Tempe Community Action Agency.
Rotaract members also volunteered at Feed My Starving Children’s Hope Filled Holiday MobilePack event on Nov. 15, 2025. Volunteers gathered that day from Rotaract and other community groups packed 524 boxes totaling 113,184 meals— enough to provide 310 children with a daily meal for an entire year.
These projects reflect Rotaract’s mission to develop young leaders through hands-on service that benefits both local and global communities.
If you’re looking for a fun, welcoming way to meet new people while making a real difference, the East Valley Rotaract Club is open to students and community members ages 18 and up. Visit riosalado.edu/Rotaract or email [email protected] to learn more.
Jo C. Bennett Student Assistance Fund
In early December, Rio Salado College faculty hosted an online auction to benefit the Jo C. Bennett Student Assistance Fund.
The auction featured dozens of holiday-ready items—including items donated from individuals at the college such as jewelry, anime figurines, clothing, décor, restaurant gift cards, toys, and lodging options for stays in Pinetop, Ariz., and Carlsbad, Calif.
The fund provides emergency financial assistance to Rio Salado College students in good standing who are facing urgent expenses that could force them to drop out.
For students choosing between buying food or paying for classes, the fund may help cover commuting costs, diapers, rent, and other essential needs.
“The Jo C. Bennett fund has been a longstanding tradition at Rio because it reflects our commitment to supporting students both inside and outside the classroom,” said Dr. Jennifer Gresko, Faculty Chair for Educator Preparation Programs.
“Our faculty consistently rally behind the fund through the annual auction and other initiatives because we see firsthand how even a small amount of support can remove barriers and help students stay on track.”
The Jo C. Bennett Fund was created by Dr. Patricia Case, who served as Rio Salado’s Faculty Chair of Social Sciences for 31 years, and is named in honor of her mother.
Believe in YourElf Holiday Extravaganza
Another heartwarming highlight came from 7th Dream Helping Hearts, a nonprofit founded by Rio Salado student, and 2025 Entrepreneur of the Year, Shaniqua Hopkins. On Dec. 13, 2025, the organization held its third annual Believe in YourElf Holiday Extravaganza, an event designed to give foster children the feeling of a traditional holiday “home.”
Hopkins shared that her own experiences in foster care— and later becoming a teen mother— shaped her desire to create something meaningful for children and families who often feel overlooked during the holidays.
Leading up to the event, 7th Dream Helping Hearts collected donations of essentials such as shoes, clothing, diapers, hygiene products, and household items.
“This event goes far beyond toys,” Hopkins said. “It meets real needs. The wish lists don’t ask for the trendiest phones or newest gadgets. Many of these families would go without the essentials without the support of this event.”
This year, Rio Salado College stepped in to help support the families participating in the celebration.
“We are incredibly grateful to Rio Salado for adopting the families this year,” Hopkins added. “As a small nonprofit, 75 percent of this event is typically funded personally by me when sponsorships cannot be secured. Thanks to Rio, our families are coming home for Christmas this year.”
7th Dream Helping Hearts primarily serves pregnant and parenting youth—many of whom are current or former foster youth. They also support young mothers who have lost a parent, are working to finish high school, or simply have no one to turn to during the holiday season.