PHOENIX (AZFamily) — A quinceañera is a meaningful event that marks a girl’s transition into womanhood. The occasion is celebrated with plenty of food, friends, dancing and beautiful dresses.
So, it’s Something Good when a local nonprofit funds the festivities for three local teens and awards them a college scholarship!
Community Comadres, founded by radio host Priscilla Ornelas, helps women connect while making a positive impact on the community through volunteering, fundraising and giving back. Last year, the organization hosted its inaugural gala, which included 300 guests.
“To give back to the community that I was built in feels super special, and then to do it with so many amazing women is like the cherry on top,” said Ornelas.
This year, they will celebrate Daisy Reede of Camelback High School and Allison Garcia and Nadia Canales of Chandler High School. Not only will the three young women get to have the night of their dreams, but they will each be awarded a $5,000 college scholarship.
“I was so shocked, but once the realization kicked in, I was very happy. I have that start to start college and get money,” said Garcia. She hopes to attend an Ivy League school and pursue a career in marketing/management.
Reede is attending Colgate University in New York. She says that being the first person in her family to attend college, especially so far away, is both scary and exciting. “To be going debt free is very important to me, and that’s why I’m so thankful for Community Comadres.”
The quinceañera charity gala will be on Sept. 27 at Legends Events Center, near Camelback Road and 43rd Avenue. There will be food, raffles and a VIP experience, and the community is welcome to attend.
“This event is a celebration of culture, community and collective impact,” said Ornelas. “I’m so proud of our board, the community and the incredible young women we’re honoring.”
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