-Editorial
Access to Thrive held its first major fundraiser and donation drive Aug. 15, bringing together more than 80 community members in support of vulnerable residents and students preparing for the school year.
The event, titled Compassion in Action: A Night of Arts and Music, took place at The Den 455 W. State Street in El Centro, and featured live art, performances, and a strong community response to donation calls.
Ashley Contreras, founder of Access to Thrive, said the fundraiser was designed to meet several urgent needs. “The goal of the event was to get the community together to support those in our community who are most vulnerable and most in need,” Contreras explained. “We divided the support into three things—hydration supplies, back-to-school supplies, and monetary donations that will go directly to Kevin, a young man critically injured in an accident on Highway 111.”
According to Contreras, the event collected about 40 cases of water, 1,400 notebooks, countless pencils, erasers, and other school supplies, along with monetary support. Back-to-school donations will go directly to CASA Children in Foster Care.
Despite the extreme heat, Contreras noted that attendees remained engaged throughout the evening. “It was a great success. I’m super grateful for the community because it was hot, and people stayed from beginning to end. It was great to see the community gathering, networking, making new connections, and everyone there with the right mindset of helping the community and giving back.”
The night also highlighted local talent, including live artwork, an art exhibit, and performances of Dulce Luna, the winner of “Yo También Canto” local music competition, and finalist Christopher Torres. Sponsors for this event were Pinshi Metichi, Old Eucalyptus, and Unwind and Design Creative Studios.
Access to Thrive focuses on enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities, but also supports vulnerable populations through initiatives such as Keep Cool IV, which provides water, snacks, and hygiene supplies to individuals experiencing homelessness during extreme heat. The organization partners with groups including Imperial Valley Equity & Justice and the Becoming Project. Their goal is to break down barriers and create an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive, live with dignity, and reach their fullest potential.
