El Camino College, deeply rooted in Southern California’s car culture, is excited to invite the community to its annual “Classic Cars” Show. This event is a key part of the college’s initiative to support formerly incarcerated and justice system-impacted students who are committed to pursuing higher education.
The FIRST (Formerly Incarcerated Re-Entry Students Thriving) program and the Resiliency FIRST Student Club are proud to present “Cruise With Us Into Higher Ed,” the second annual student program orientation and classic car exhibit and fundraiser. This unique event will take place on September 14th on the El Camino College campus in Parking Lot B, conveniently located at the intersection of Crenshaw and Manhattan Beach boulevards. The event is open to everyone. The FIRST Program orientation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Social Justice Center, while the car show will run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Classic car enthusiasts are encouraged to showcase their prized vehicles. Car show participation requires registration and a $20 entry fee. All proceeds from the car show will directly benefit the “Second Chance Student Scholarship” award, supporting students in the FIRST program.
“This event serves as a welcoming open house for our community to witness firsthand how the FIRST program at El Camino College empowers and supports our formerly incarcerated and system-impacted students,” stated Francisco “Pancho” Lopez, the FIRST Program Coordinator. “We aim to welcome our FIRST students home with an inspiring display of iconic cars, music, and the vibrant ‘low-riding’ heritage that resonates within our community.”
The “Cruise With Us Into Higher Ed” event is strategically designed to raise awareness and crucial funds for El Camino’s FIRST Program. Launched in 2020, the FIRST program is dedicated to creating a clear pathway from incarceration to college, enabling students to achieve their educational aspirations and successfully reintegrate into society.
As a part of the esteemed “Rising Scholars Network,” a statewide California initiative, El Camino’s FIRST Program offers comprehensive and personalized support. This includes dedicated counseling, financial aid assistance, access to job opportunities, and basic needs support, all within a welcoming and inclusive community environment. The FIRST Program also enriches the student experience by providing a variety of academic activities, engaging workshops, insightful guest speakers, and valuable university tours.
El Camino Community College District is committed to inclusivity and encourages individuals with disabilities to fully participate in its programs and activities. If any accommodations are needed due to a disability, or if there are questions regarding physical access, please contact the FIRST Program at your earliest convenience, ideally at least seven days before the event.
For more detailed information about the upcoming “Cruise With Us Into Higher Ed” event or to learn more about El Camino College’s impactful Formerly Incarcerated Re-Entry Students Thriving (FIRST) Program, please visit: www.elcamino.edu/support/resources/first/.
