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October 2025 - Lee en español
 On September 30, Supervisor Allen met with high school students during the League of Women Voters of Greater Tucson Running & Winning program.
Hello District 3!
It’s hard to believe we’ve already been in office for ten months! During that time, we’ve been learning all about Pima County, meeting and supporting constituents, and, of course, preparing for and attending every Board of Supervisors meeting (find all recaps here).
In addition to this work, we’ve also made time to connect with fellow women in elected office and with future leaders! Over the past few weeks, Supervisor Allen joined a fantastic learning space at Cholla High School, organized by the League of Women Voters of Greater Tucson. She and other women elected officials showed high school girls that public office is a path open to them. Also, in early September, our office hosted 16-year-old Girl Scout “Cookie” Ramírez, who had the opportunity to experience what it’s like to be a County Supervisor for a day.
Later that month, Supervisor Allen attended the Poderosas State Summit 2025 in Phoenix, organized by Poder Latinx. There, she emphasized the importance of honoring our roots and the communities we come from, and how that perspective shapes the policies we advocate for and keeps us accountable to those we serve. She also spoke about the power of voting and the need for elected officials to reflect the realities, needs, and faces of all our communities.
We’re proud of all the work we’ve done so far, but we know this is just the beginning.
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If you haven’t met us during office hours yet, mark your calendar! Keep reading to find the schedule further down the page.
An ICE facility in Marana?
Dear constituents and friends,
The businesses we have in our community reflect who we are. That is why I’m concerned about the possible reopening of the Marana prison as an ICE detention center for immigrants. The Management and Training Corporation (MTC) ran the prison before and has bought it back for $15 million.
ICE detention centers are now a lucrative business. Congress appropriated $45 billion (that is with a “b”) for building and maintaining these facilities. For example, Geo Group, another private company, expects to earn more than $240 million a year from four ICE facilities.
Profitable, yes. Ethical and humane, not at all. There is increasing concern and documentation about the horrific conditions for detainees, but particularly for children. Reported conditions include kids sleeping on the ground with lights on at all hours, no access to basic sanitation including toilets and handwashing, and no adequate access to medical care, often with dire consequences.
The people being detained are not “alien enemies,” gang members, or criminals. They are our neighbors, co-workers, and friends -- people who hold jobs, pay taxes, and raise their children who then become active members of our community and proud Americans.
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The sad irony is that our federal government is spending billions on terrorizing and detaining our neighbors while defunding basic programs that we desperately need.
Our office is currently working with Ms. Ellie Towne, an 88-year-old powerhouse who is working on raising $45,000 to reinstate the senior lunch program in Flowing Wells three days a week. She wishes it could be five days. There are more than 75 seniors in the area who need this program, some stating it is the only solid meal a day they can count on. This is to replace a program formerly funded by federal grants.
It’s often said that budgets are moral documents that reflect our true values. What does it say when critical programs like senior meals, Medicaid, WIC, utility assistance, and housing programs are gutted while the federal government is investing billions in facilities to lock up our neighbors?
If you’d like to learn more, please attend the Town Hall in Marana on Thursday, October 23. We will have experts from the ACLU of Arizona, the Florence Immigrant & Refugee Rights Project, and Just Communities AZ. It is from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Coyote Trails Elementary School in Marana (8000 N. Silverbell Rd.). I hope you can join.
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Jennifer Allen
Community Spotlight
 PWR! A District 3 Gem for People with Parkinson’s
If you don’t already know someone with Parkinson’s, you will. The number of people diagnosed is growing quickly. As that occurs, there is so much potential for people with Parkinson’s to get better and maintain their health through exercise.
That growing community need, and the hope it brings, is what motivates Kimberly Peute, JD, MBA, Chief Executive Officer of Parkinson Wellness Recovery | PWR! For her, “connecting with the right teams of people—not just exercise and therapy, but the right combination of professionals— can help change the trajectory of one’s disease.”
Located in District 3 at 4343 N Oracle Rd, PWR! offers around 40 different group exercise classes per week, each lasting 1-1.5 hours. The center’s mission is to enhance access to and awareness of research-driven exercise that improves the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s disease.
PWR! was founded in 2010 in Tucson by Dr. Becky G. Farley, Ph.D., MS, PT. As Kimberly explains, “She developed a framework of four basic moves, everyday movements we all do, that, when practiced, we get better at.” Functional movements like walking, stepping big, rocking, reaching for a coffee pot, twisting to get in and out of bed, or putting a seatbelt on are transformed into exercises.
“Our mission is to serve people no matter where they are. Whether someone comes in using a wheelchair, walking poles, or on their own, the goal is preventing or slowing the progression of a disease that can totally impact one’s quality of life” Kimberly says. She strongly believes that alongside medication, exercise is the most powerful tool available to people with Parkinson’s.
In addition to supporting individuals with Parkinson’s, PWR! is one of just five accredited programs through the Parkinson’s Foundation that trains professionals to implement these evidence-based programs nationwide. PWR! also welcomes care partners into its space, recognizing their need to exercise and stay healthy in order to help their loved one.
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Each year, PWR! organizes an intensive, week-long retreat for people with Parkinson’s and their care partners. “It’s very moving,” Kimberly says. “We exercise four to five hours a day, and in the afternoons we bring in scientists, researchers, neurologists, and other medical professionals to talk about the latest developments in the field.” These retreats foster a deep sense of community, as participants form strong connections through shared experiences and peer support.
As a nonprofit, PWR! continually faces the challenge of funding. Their goal is to keep these vital services affordable while planning for long-term sustainability.
“In the future, we envision more partnerships and collaborations with other organizations,” Kimberly says. “And we’ll keep raising awareness about the fact that PWR! is here, and that it’s truly a gem in the Tucson community.”
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Parkinson Wellness Recovery | PWR! is a 501(c)(3) Tax-Exempt Organization, Arizona Qualified Charitable Organization #22122.For more information, call 520.591.5346 or visit: www.pwr4life.org
www.exerciseforbrainchange.org
Community Resources
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Mobile Meals of Southern Arizona delivers fresh, healthy, homemade meals to your door, made in Tucson. From savory casseroles to gourmet salads, their meals are prepared with love and care. To learn more and register for meals, visit: https://mobilemealssoaz.org/ or call 520-622-1600.
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Registration is open for the 34th annual Ted Walker Youth Day, an event that gives children the chance to learn in a fun, engaging environment at one of Pima County’s best-loved attractions. This free, educational event is scheduled for Jan. 22, 2026, at Old Tucson Studios. 3rd to 6th grade educators should register online before Jan. 7, 2026, or until full.
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Reduce your utility services statement. Through Pima County Wastewater Reclamation, you could qualify for a 25%, 50%, or 75% reduction to the wastewater portion of your utility services statement. To be eligible, you must be a residential sewer customer, have a sewer bill in your name, and meet income requirements. To determine your income eligibility, call (520) 791-5443 or visit: https://shorturl.at/lHKbR
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Comprehensive guidelines for businesses in Pima County are available in this site. They focus on food-related establishments.
Upcoming Events
October 22: Trunk or Treat in Ajo
Save the date, dress up, and have fun in Ajo! Enjoy game booths hosted by local businesses and organizations, family-friendly activities like Spooky Trivia and Make-a-Mummy, a costume contest, popcorn, crafts, and more! Free and open to all ages.
When: Wednesday, October 22, 2025
Time: 4:30 - 7 p.m.
Location: Bud Walker Park, Field #2, 290 W 5th Street.
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October 23: Food Safety Certification Class in Ajo
Ajo residents: The Pima County Health Department invites you to attend a Food Safety Certification Class on October 23, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Salazar-Ajo Library. For $30, you’ll learn essential food safety practices, including preventing cross-contamination, proper food storage and temperature control, personal hygiene, safe food preparation, and food safety regulations. More information: 520-724-7908 or chfs@pima.gov. Register now.
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October 25: Waila Celebration
Save the date and participate in the 3rd Annual Waila Celebration, an amazing event featuring Tohono O'odham Waila music, food, arts, crafts, and free activities open to all ages.
When: Saturday, October 25, 2025
Time: 6-10 p.m.
Location: Desert Diamond Why Parking Lot
More information: Event coordinator 520-860-1275 - nwlanhambaird@ddcaz.com
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October 25: A Day at the Santa Cruz River
Join community members, local organizations, land management agencies for a day of fun and stewardship! There will be a raffle made possible by the Sonoran Institute as well as local food, refreshments and music to keep everyone entertained.
When: Saturday, October 25, 2025
Time: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Bird walk starts at 8 a.m.
Location: Juhan Park and Santa Cruz River, 1770 W Copper St. Tucson, AZ, 85745
More information:
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October 31: Halloween in Flowing Wells
Get ready for a ghoulishly good time at the Flowing Wells annual Halloween Spooktacular! Families are invited to enjoy carnival games, trick-or-treat trail, spooky crafts, kid friendly spooky walkthrough, and costume contest.
When: Friday, October 31, 2025
Time: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: Ellie Towne Flowing Wells Community Center. 1660 W Ruthrauff Rd, Tucson, AZ 85705
More information: 520-724-5360
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October 31: Halloween in Three Points
Celebrate Halloween at the Robles Ranch Community Center. Trunk or treat, music, spooky art gallery, pumpkin carving contest, and more! Costume and best trunk contest will be announced at 8:00 pm.
When: Friday, October 31, 2025
Time: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: Robles Ranch Community Center. 16150 W Ajo Hwy, Tucson, AZ, 86735
More information: 520-822-4408
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November 6: Pathway to Progress Legal Clinic
Pima County will host the second Pathway to Progress Legal Clinic. The free clinic offers assistance to individuals with felony matters in Pima County Superior Court.
When November 6, 2025
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Pima County Public Defense Services, 33 N Stone Ave, 10th Floor
Possible Court Hearing: Pima County Superior Court, 110 W Congress St.
More information: pima.gov/pathwaytoprogress.
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November 8: Three Points Community Festival
Three Points and Robles Junction invite you to participate in the 18th Annual Community Festival, and 4th Annual Car Show. Enjoy a fun afternoon with over 30 vendors, raffles and games for all ages. Free admission and free parking at VFW.
When: Saturday, November 8, 2025
Time: 2-6 p.m.
Location: Robles Elementary School, 9875 S. Sasabe Rd.
More information: Festival coordinator: 520-777-3877
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Upcoming Office Hours
*Let us know about upcoming community events! Please e-mail us at district3@pima.gov.
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Here’s a quick overview of what we've been up to across District 3 and Pima County.
A Day in Arivaca
It was a beautiful day in Arivaca on Saturday, October 4th. Supervisor Allen was there for District 3’s bimonthly Office Hours. There were many people out for the Street Fair and she went on a tour of the historic Old Arivaca Hotel that Arivaca HR is rehabilitating as a short-term rental and visitor lodging.
She also tried out the beautiful new “red bench,” a place for folks to visit with friends or enjoy the park. It was designed by artist Zoe Hams and funded by the Tucson Osteopathic Medical Foundation.
Marana Pumpkin Patch
For the 165+ people at the Marana Mixer, we got a sneak preview of the fun that is now happening at the , which opened on October 4th. Amanda Wiggins, CEO of the Marana Chamber of Commerce, and her team did a wonderful job organizing the event. Mayor Jon Post (who owns the Pumpkin Patch) provided a delicious dinner and free train rides. There are also rides, games, farm animals, and 70 acres of pumpkins at the Patch. It was a wonderful event for networking and just relaxing. Thanks Amanda and Mayor Post!
Visiting Neighborhood Association Meetings
District 3 has been busy meeting with Neighborhood Associations. We recently met with Keeling, Amphi, and Flowing Wells – with more to come. We want to learn more about your priorities.
It is always impressive to see neighbors coming together to discuss issues that are relevant to their community. Speakers are organized, resources are shared, and decisions are made – then that information is shared with neighbors through newsletters and websites.
We know it takes a lot of effort to make happen, so we appreciate the role neighborhood associations play in making our local democracy stronger!
Do you have an upcoming Neighborhood Association meeting we can come to? We want to hear about your concerns. Just drop us a line and let us know.
Supervisor Allen was honored to attend the ribbon cutting for The Homing Project’s new Esperanza Village, a community of 10 micro shelters for folks coming out of homelessness located in Tucson’s Keeling Neighborhood. This is an innovative approach for bringing temporary shelter to people who need a bridge between living on the street and more permanent housing.
In the photo: Homing Project CEO Dr. J Kristin Olson-Garewal, Tucson Mayor Regina Romero, Tucson City Council Member Kevin Dahl, Supervisor Jen Allen
Connecting with the Desert at Ironwood Forest
On Sunday, September 21, our team joined Mountain Mamas and other organizations for Rise with the Sun!, a Latino Conservation Week event at Ironwood Forest National Monument. We gathered at sunrise for a nature walk to celebrate the Sonoran Desert and raise awareness about protecting this vital landscape, home to endangered species, cultural heritage, and iconic desert beauty. Located in the heart of District 3, Ironwood Forest continues to face threats of reduced protections and increased mining pressures.
Jobs with Justice
In late September, Supervisor Allen joined Arizona Jobs with Justice (JwJ) to celebrate their 35th anniversary and honor the folks that have poured their all into advocating for worker rights and community power here in southern Arizona.
Congratulations to Steve Valencia and the entire JwJ team on this incredible milestone and keep up the good fight!
Together Against Domestic Violence
On Sunday, September 28, Supervisor Allen joined the 50th Anniversary Celebration of Emerge Center Against Domestic Abuse. It was a powerful and inspiring evening honoring the incredible work of hundreds of advocates who have supported survivors of domestic abuse for the past 50 years. A heartfelt thank you to CEO Anna Harper for including District 3 in this meaningful celebration.
And on October 14, the Pima County Board of Supervisors proclaimed October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Thank you Girl Scouts!
A few weeks ago we had the pleasure of hosting a very special guest at the District 3 office: 16-year-old Girl Scout Cookie Ramirez. We took her on a tour of the Board of Supervisors Hearing Room and invited her to a roundtable conversation with some of the amazing women who are making a difference in Pima County. It was an opportunity to learn about their roles in government, why they chose public service, and why it’s so important to have women in leadership positions. Thank you, Cookie, and thank you to Girl Scouts Takeover for your interest in our work — and for bringing inspiration and bright smiles to our office!
Hispanic Heritage Month
During September and October, as part of Hispanic Heritage Month, our office celebrated the vibrant culture, energy, and contributions of Hispanic communities in Pima County.
Did you know that Supervisor Allen speaks Spanish fluently? ¡Así es! And remember, we can also take your calls and messages in Spanish. Our Office Manager, Claudia Bungard (on the left), is a friendly and proud Colombian.
Thank you to all our Hispanic constituents in District 3 — ¡estamos para servirles!
Subscribe to our Channel
Be up to date with the Board of Supervisors meeting recap. Every two weeks, Supervisor Allen summarizes the most important discussions and decisions of each agenda. Follow us and subscribe here: Youtube.com/@SupervisorJenniferAllen
Meet and Adopt Icarus!
This good boy has recently learned how to sit and he LOVES to show his volunteer friends. He loves playing with his doggie friends. He’s a neutered male, red and tricolor American Pit Bull Terrier. The shelter staff think he’s about 1 year and 1 month old.
If you want to adopt Icarus, email PACC.AdoptAFoster@pima.gov.ID number: A881373 Contact: Pima Animal Care Center: 520-724-5900
Here are some opportunities to provide your input on County projects or support our community.
Support the Tucson Indian Center Holiday Food Drive
They want to collect essential items for local families who may not have the means to buy a holiday meal. You can drop oof food at 160 N Stone Ave, Tucson, AZ, from October 15 to December 8. Here's an Amazon wish list, or you could donate money at www.ticenter.org. Please indicate in "special instructions" section this is for Holiday Food Drive. More information: (520) 884-7131.
Volunteer with Friends of Ironwood Forest!
Now that our desert days are cooling down, Friends of Ironwood Forest is welcoming volunteers back for their fall work days and Desert Fence Busters events. See the full schedule and sign up here.
Help shape the future of food safety
Pima County’s Consumer Health & Food Safety (CHFS) division is launching the second cycle of its Foodborne Illness Risk Factor Study, running from 2025 to 2028. This study aims to identify and reduce the most common risks of food poisoning in our local food businesses. Learn more.
Serve on a Pima County Board, Commission, or Committee!
Use this QR code and fill out a brief questionnaire, and someone from our office will contact you with next steps!
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 Reach Out!
We can connect you with Pima County Departments and Services, such as home repair/weatherization, rent and utility assistance, eviction prevention, transportation, land use issues, animal rescue, employment assistance, and much more.
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Not subscribed to our monthly newsletter yet?
Click the link below to sign up!
Email: district3@pima.gov
Call us: 520-724-8051 or 520-724-8251
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Thanks for reading!
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