Free Sunland Park program helps parents take first step toward college, careers

June 13, 2026 - 21:57

A new, no-cost initiative at Doña Ana Community College's Sunland Park Center is giving parents and caregivers a chance to build a better future for themselves and their families. The program, known as AVANCE to College, focuses on developing essential skills in parenting, leadership, and education while also preparing participants for college and career opportunities.

The program is designed for parents who may feel stuck or unsure about how to take the first step toward higher education or a new job. Instead of just offering advice, AVANCE to College provides hands-on workshops and support that cover everything from effective parenting strategies to basic college readiness. Organizers say the goal is to break down the barriers that often keep working parents from pursuing their own goals, such as lack of time, money, or confidence.

Participants will learn how to navigate the college system, explore potential career paths, and build the kind of leadership skills that can help them succeed at work and at home. The program is completely free, which removes a major obstacle for many families in the Sunland Park area.

For parents who have long dreamed of going back to school but never knew where to start, this program offers a clear and supportive path forward. It is not just about getting a degree or a job. It is about showing children that learning and growth are possible at any stage of life.