Jesse Needs Help! Borrego Springs’ own, Jesse Orozco (Maribel’s son), is an outstanding student who's earned an invitation to the prestigious NYLF Explore STEM camp in San Diego.
He needs help payng for it.
Jesse works hard—cutting hair for the unhoused, selling candy and avocados—to reach his goal. He needs help.
Your donation helps Jesse take this life-changing opportunity and continue excelling in STEM.
Message From Jesse's GoFundMe Account
Hi everyone,
I’m reaching out to ask for your support in helping my son, Jesse Orozco, take part in an incredible opportunity. Jesse is a bright, curious, and determined 14 year old middle schooler who lights up at the chance to learn something new. He’s thrilled to have been invited to the
National Youth Leadership Forum: Explore STEM—a prestigious week-long summer program designed for future leaders in science, technology, engineering, and math.
Why This Opportunity is Life-Changing
NYLF Explore STEM is more than just a program—it’s a chance for Jesse to take his passion for learning to the next level. Through 14 hour-a-day hands-on simulations, workshops, and challenges, he’ll gain practical skills and experiences that will inspire his future. In one activity their team will build a drone to learn how it operates.
One highlight of the program is the Outdoor Medicine Simulation, developed by Stanford University experts. Jesse will learn and practice life-saving techniques in a wilderness setting, building skills that could one day save lives and ignite a deeper passion for STEM.
This amazing program will take place at UC San Diego in La Jolla, but we need your help to make it happen.
Why Your Financial Support Means Everything
Jesse has worked so hard for this opportunity, and I want to give him the chance to thrive and grow through this experience. Unfortunately, the tuition, dorm housing and travel expenses are more than we can manage alone.
By contributing, you’re helping Jesse take a big step toward his dreams of one day making a difference as a future innovator, scientist, or engineer.
How You Can Help
- Donate: Every dollar brings us closer to our goal and helps Jesse attend this incredible program.
- Share: Please spread the word to family, friends, and anyone who believes in supporting bright young minds.
Thank you for being part of Jesse’s journey. Your generosity and support mean so much to our family and will make a lasting impact on his future.
Together, we can give Jesse the opportunity to shine!
Learn More About Borrego Springs
December 6, 2025
The second community Shape Note Sing in Borrego Springs
December 1, 2025
Jeanne & Jan Are Back at The Mall Offering Light Repairs for the Community Every first Monday of the month, they set up in front of Tubs Laundromat and Community Valley Bank at The Mall, offering helpful light repairs such as mending, patches, buttons, and hems. The service is always free. If you choose to donate, every donation goes directly to a local Borrego Springs charity. Check Borrego Events to confirm time & dates.
By Fr. Michael Plekon
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November 26, 2025
A reflection on Advent’s meaning and the saints who show us how to wait with purpose.
November 23, 2025
The Thanksgiving Eve Service brought the community together at Borrego Springs Community UMC for an evening centered on gratitude, reflection, and the shared bonds that carry Borrego Springs through each year. Guided by local clergy, and volunteers, the service offered a mix of music, readings, and stories that highlighted both faith and community care. Coming Together in Gratitude Pastor Mateo Mamea opened the service with a call to give thanks, setting the tone for an evening of reflection. Rev. Michael Plekon followed with the opening prayer, encouraging gratitude for daily blessings and the natural world that surrounds Borrego Springs. Readings, Music, and Reflections Scripture readings were shared by Cmdr. Dale Jones and Rev. David Madsen, with additional participation from Ellen Fitzpatrick. Pastor Mamea offered the homily, focusing on gratitude and living with intention. Music added depth and warmth to the service. Jennie and Gary Edwards performed “For the Beauty of the Earth,” and the combined choir, directed by Jinny Perrin, contributed an uplifting anthem. Voices From the Community Martha offered stories about the Borrego Ministers Association—how it began, how it supports people in crisis, and why its work matters. Her remarks helped newcomers and longtime residents better understand the BMA’s role in meeting urgent needs throughout the year. Supporting Local Needs An offering was collected to support the ongoing work of the Borrego Ministers Association , which provides emergency assistance and support services for individuals and families in Borrego Springs.
November 23, 2025
Support Women and Girls in Borrego Springs Raise your glass for a good cause at the 4th Annual Toast to Borrego , happening Saturday, December 13, 2025 , from 1:00 to 5:00 PM at the UCI Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center in Borrego Springs. Get Tickets! Enjoy an afternoon of fine wines, food, and music—all while supporting programs that empower women and girls in Borrego Springs. Event Highlights Six wines selected and introduced by Kimberly Jones Selections Catering by Carlee’s – delicious food and appetizers Live piano music by Steve Hunter Mocktails for non-drinkers One gift basket drawing ticket included Free parking Experiences and Auctions Shop creative themed gift baskets and bid on one-of-a-kind local experiences, including: Coffee Lovers New Grandparents Gourmet Foods Wine Lovers Tea Party And more to come Silent Auction Experiences: Pizza party for six with Wade of the Borrego Art Institute Olive oil tasting for five with Ingrid Tuxhorn of Borrego Olive Oil Co. Bike ride with Sylvia Maas, Kristi Sisson, and Peanut Paint Party for six with Cody from the Borrego Art Institute Tickets $75 Pre-sale until December 5 $100 General Admission Get your tickets early—attendance is limited. Cancellation Policy: All ticket sales are final. Rain or shine event. Details Location: UCI Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center 401 Tilting T Dr, Borrego Springs, CA 92004 Time: 1:00–5:00 PM (Pouring 1:00–3:30 PM) Note: Guests must be 21 or older. Children and pets cannot be accommodated (service animals welcome). Learn More About Borrego Springs
November 17, 2025
Learn about the Borrego Caregiver Corps, the community need it serves, caregiver training, key benefits, and future plans for supportive programs in Borrego Springs.
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