OneFuture hosts college send-off

PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) – OneFuture Coachella Valley is hosting its Gents Alliance College Send-Off at the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus, bringing together incoming and returning male college students from across the Coachella Valley before the start of the new academic year.

The event celebrates students as they take the next step in their educational journey while connecting them with mentors, peers, and campus resources. Organizers say attendees will also learn about men's mental health and the ongoing support available through Gents Alliance.

The event connected students with mentors, peers, scholarships, mental health resources and campus support services designed to help them navigate college and prepare for future careers.

For Joseph Gonzalez, a Gents Alliance participant, the program helped transform his college experience.

"I was a very shy person. I didn't know how to get involved," Gonzalez said. "I took that leap of faith, and everything shifted."

Gonzalez said the program gave him the confidence to become active in student government, earn scholarships and pursue his goal of becoming a teacher in the Salton Sea area to mentor future generations.

Organizers say the support doesn't end after students arrive on campus. Through continued mentorship, career guidance and networking opportunities, Gents Alliance aims to help students stay on track through graduation and into the workforce.

OneFuture Coachella Valley says it will continue offering opportunities for students across the region to connect with colleges, universities and community partners throughout the academic year.