Home for the Holidays: Bringing CSF Scholars Together

Each winter, as CSF Scholars return home to Yakima from colleges across Washington, one tradition brings them back together: Home for the Holidays. This annual event was created specifically for students who are home on winter break from the University of Washington, Central Washington University, Yakima Valley College, Washington State University, Eastern Washington University, and other institutions. It is a chance to reconnect, recharge and celebrate the progress they’ve made during the fall term.

A Space to Reconnect and Recharge

The gathering offers students an opportunity to reconnect with their high school friends, share life updates with CSF college coaches and former high school advisors, and simply enjoy a moment of relaxation after finishing finals. This year’s event welcomed more than 120 students, guests, and community partners to the Yakima Valley Conference Center. The event featured music, games, winter crafts, gingerbread building competition and a catered lunch from Jessie’s Teriyaki. Students also had the chance to win exciting raffle prizes throughout the afternoon.

For many CSF Scholars from across the state, Yakima is home, the place where their college journey began and where their support network is still rooted. Last week, students from campuses statewide returned to reconnect with one another and with the CSF advisors and coaches who continue to lend support and cheer them on in person.

Why Meet-ups Matter

Home for the Holidays is about more than celebration. It plays a key role in strengthening the personal and professional networks that support first-generation students throughout their college experience and into their careers. Many first-gen students carry questions and challenges that their families may not fully understand. Being surrounded by peers who share those same experiences builds confidence and their social capital.

When students feel connected, supported and seen, they are more likely to continue toward their degrees and build the futures they envision for themselves and their families.

Thank you to every CSF Scholar, alumni and community member who joined the meet-up and to the CSF team whose commitment and care helped create such a joyful and meaningful event for students.

Special thanks to:
Raffle prize donors: Completion Ground Maintenance & Landscaping, LLC

Financial literacy/banking support: Seattle Credit Union – Monica Sanchez, Community Development Advisor – Central WA

Student photographer: Ella Craig