Las Cruces – Doña Ana Community College (DACC) demonstrated its commitment to families and students this past Friday, Oct. 9, by holding the 24th annual golf tournament at the New Mexico State University Golf Course. The event generated $10,000 in scholarship funds, providing ten $1,000 awards to students who face financial barriers to completing their education.
Scholarships empower students and families
According to DACC, the scholarships are designed to help students stay on track toward their degrees without the added stress of tuition or textbook costs. Each recipient will receive a $1,000 award, a tangible expression of the college’s belief that education is a cornerstone of strong families and thriving neighborhoods.
Food pantry receives additional support
In addition to the scholarships, the tournament contributed extra funding to the FirstLight Federal Credit Union Comfort Casita, DACC’s campus food pantry program. The Comfort Casita provides free food and basic necessities to students in need, with its main pantry located at the Espina Campus (3400 S. Espina St.) and smaller “micro‑casitas” operating at other college sites.
Community partners rally behind students
The success of the tournament reflects the broader community’s dedication to helping young people succeed. Local businesses, alumni, and volunteers gathered to support the event, underscoring the shared belief that a solid education and a well‑fed student body are essential for the health of families and the future of the region.
How students can learn more
Students interested in applying for the scholarships or accessing the Comfort Casita resources are encouraged to visit the FirstLight Comfort Casita webpage, where eligibility criteria and application instructions are posted. The college hopes the continued partnership with FirstLight Federal Credit Union will expand the pantry’s reach, ensuring no student has to choose between a meal and a textbook.
Looking ahead
DACC plans to build on this year’s momentum by exploring additional fundraising opportunities and expanding scholarship amounts in future tournaments. The college’s leadership emphasizes that supporting students financially is a direct investment in the next generation of responsible, faith‑guided citizens who will strengthen families and communities across Doña Ana County.
While the college did not disclose a total amount raised beyond the $10,000 earmarked for scholarships and pantry support, the event’s impact on students and their families is already evident. By combining athletic tradition with charitable purpose, the DACC golf tournament continues to embody the values of hard work, generosity, and community stewardship.
Original reporting: Organ Mountain News (Las Cruces / Doña Ana County) — read the source article.
