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 Letter From Council Member Barajas
Dear Ward 5 Neighbors,
October is a time to embrace new beginnings, welcome new opportunities, and celebrate the connections that make our community special. Across Ward 5, we are seeing new opportunities take shape in so many ways - from the grand reopening of Santa Rita Park and expanded opportunities for our youth to our first-ever Movies in the Park and the stories of local leaders whose legacies continue to inspire us. Each of these moments reminds us that building a stronger community means creating opportunities for people to connect, grow, and thrive while honoring the history that brought us here.
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The grand reopening of Santa Rita Park marks an exciting new chapter for our community. Our parks are more than open spaces; they are places where families gather, children play, neighbors connect, and lasting memories are made. Reinvesting in these spaces creates new opportunities for families to enjoy their neighborhood, for children to explore and play, and for neighbors to build lasting connections. I am proud to see continued investment in the places that bring our community together and help make Ward 5 a place where everyone can feel a sense of belonging.
I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to the Tucson Bandidos Baseball Club for honoring Council Advisor Fernando Ortiz and me with a special visit to the Ward 5 Office. The players, ages 8–14, along with their coaches and parents, presented our office with a special team jersey and signed baseball. I am truly grateful for this thoughtful gesture and appreciate the dedication, hard work, and commitment these young athletes bring to the field.
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 We are especially excited to welcome the Bandidos to Santa Rita Park, where they now have the opportunity to practice close to home, in the very community where many of these young athletes and their families live. Council Advisor Fernando Ortiz worked closely with the baseball club and Parks & Recreation to help make this opportunity possible, recognizing the importance of ensuring our youth have access to safe, accessible spaces where they can participate, grow, and thrive. In the past, the team had to travel outside their neighborhood just to find a place to practice. Now, having a home base at Santa Rita Park reduces barriers for families, creates greater opportunities for participation, and allows these young athletes to build stronger connections within their own community. This is what investing in our neighborhood parks is all about; bringing opportunities closer to home and making sure our youth have the spaces and support they need to succeed.
Investing in youth sports is also an important part of violence prevention. When we provide young people with safe spaces, positive mentorship, structured activities, and opportunities to develop their talents, we help create pathways for success and belonging. Our parks can be places where young people build confidence, friendships, discipline, and leadership while staying connected to their community.
We would also like to congratulate the athletes, coaches, and families of the Southwest Rams and Tucson Raiders, who have spent countless hours at our Ward 5 parks, on an outstanding season at the 2026 City’s Championship Games held at Desert View last weekend. These teams and their families have spent countless hours at our Ward 5 parks, and it is wonderful to see their hard work pay off.
The Southwest Rams, who practice at Rudy Garcia Park, captured football championships in the 8U, 9U, 11U, and 12U divisions, while the Tucson Raiders, who practice at Silverlake and (next season) at Santa Rita Park, earned second place in the 10U division. Both organizations also brought home multiple cheerleading championships! When we invest in our youth and our parks, we are investing in champions! We are investing in stronger families, healthier communities, and a brighter future for Tucson.
 Congratulations to all the athletes, coaches, families and friends. Keep working hard, continue supporting one another, and carry the lessons learned both on and off the field into everything you do. We are proud of you and wish you the best of luck at Regionals.
We also created a new opportunity for our community to come together when we brought Movies in the Park to Ward 5 for the very first time! The response was incredible! Thousands of families and community members of all ages came together to enjoy free movies and spend quality time with their loved ones. Seeing so many people share an evening together was a beautiful reminder that some of the most meaningful opportunities are the ones that bring us closer to one another. By creating fun, accessible experiences for our families, we are making space for connection, joy, and memories that span generations.
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As we embrace new opportunities for Ward 5, it is equally important to honor the people whose hard work and vision helped shape our community. South Park Avenue was once home to a thriving network of Black-owned businesses that created jobs, strengthened families, and helped build generational opportunities. This month, we had the honor of recognizing Walter Hopkins and Lula Hunter of Hopkins Fashions & Sounds, along with Charles Kendrick, whose contributions through Ken’s Market, the Black History Museum, and Mr. K’s BBQ left a lasting mark on our community. Their stories remind us that building a stronger future also means remembering, preserving, and celebrating the people who helped build the foundation we stand on today.
Photo Credit: Dama Federico @hvnsessence
I also want to congratulate Rahel Hehn as she begins a new professional opportunity working with Senator Mark Kelly. Rahel worked in our office as the Scheduling & Digital Communications and I will miss her presence - her creativity and insights. I wish Rahel continued success and all the best in this exciting next chapter. Her transition is another reminder that new opportunities allow us to learn, grow, and make meaningful contributions in new ways.
 As I reflect on all that is happening in Ward 5, I am reminded that new opportunities are not just about what lies ahead; they are about building on what we have already created together. Whether we are reinvesting in our parks, opening doors for our youth, bringing families together, preserving our neighborhood’s history, or celebrating new professional beginnings, each step helps create a stronger foundation for the future.
My hope is that we continue to build a Ward 5 where every child has the opportunity to succeed, every family has spaces and experiences that bring them together, every neighborhood has the chance to thrive, and every generation can see a future filled with possibility. By honoring our past, investing in our present, and embracing the opportunities ahead, we can continue to make Ward 5 a community where everyone has the chance to grow and succeed.
Finally, as we continue working together to build stronger neighborhoods, I encourage everyone to make their voices heard at the ballot box. Voting is another important way to shape the future of our community and the opportunities available to the next generation. If you haven't already, don't forget to vote this upcoming Tuesday, November 3! Click here for more information.
Thank you for your continued support and for being part of what makes Ward 5 such a special place. It is an honor to serve this community, and I look forward to all the new opportunities we will create and the progress we will continue to make together.
Thank you,
 Your Ward 5 Council Member
Santa Rita Park: A New Chapter for Barrio Santa Rita
On Friday, October 2, we celebrated the grand reopening of Santa Rita Park, welcoming more than 4,000 community members to experience the newly transformed space. It was an incredible milestone for Ward 5 and a particularly meaningful moment for me - not only as your Council Member, but as a mom, a longtime member of Barrio Santa Rita, and someone whose own involvement in our neighborhood began because of this very park.
I remember Santa Rita Park before its transformation, when even the playground lacked basic features like a slide. Seeing what the park has become today is a powerful reminder of what can happen when residents are heard and public investment reflects the needs of the community. The transformed Santa Rita Park now offers expanded opportunities for recreation, sports, and connection, creating a space where families and neighbors can gather and enjoy one of Tucson’s most significant park investments.
This transformation was shaped by the voices of residents who wanted a beautiful, safe, and welcoming place for their children and families. I want to sincerely thank everyone who sat at the table with us throughout this past year - our neighborhood residents: Barrio Santa Rita/West Ochoa Neighborhood Association and Friends of Santa Rita Park, Parks and Recreation, Tucson Police Department (Operations Division South), city departments, the Arts Foundation for Tucson and Southern Arizona, local businesses, youth sports organizations, nonprofits, and community partners. Your ideas, advocacy, time, and commitment helped shape this vision. I am also grateful to our voters for supporting these investments and to my Ward 5 team for their dedication in helping bring this project to life.
 We also have more exciting improvements ahead! During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Vice Chairwoman of the Tohono O'odham Nation, Carla Johnson, shared the exciting news that Santa Rita Park was selected as an awardee of a Gaming Grant to fund a shade structure over the basketball courts. This is especially meaningful given that Barrio Santa Rita is situated in one of the hottest areas of our city, where access to shade is essential for the health, comfort, and safety of our families and athletes. This investment will help create a more welcoming space for residents to stay active, gather, and enjoy the park throughout the year.
We also recognize that Santa Rita Park has long been home to a dedicated skate park community. I want to extend a special thank-you to the skaters who have continued to show up, use the space, and advocate for their community over the years. We see you, appreciate your commitment, and recognize the importance of keeping your voices part of the ongoing conversations about Santa Rita Park and its future. We look forward to visioning alongside you all soon and hearing your ideas for what comes next!
Today, Santa Rita Park is more than a renovated space. It is a place where children can participate in organized sports close to home (every single day of the week), families can gather for parties, young people can build friendships, and neighbors can strengthen their connections. It represents an investment in youth development, recreation, and the long-term well-being of our community.
For generations, Santa Rita Park has been part of the heart of Barrio Santa Rita. It is one of the oldest parks in Tucson and this transformation honors that history while creating a space for the next generation to make memories of their own. Thank you to everyone who helped make this possible and to the more than 4,000 community members who came out to celebrate with us. We hope you continue to show up at Santa Rita Park!
Santa Rita Park is a reflection of what we can accomplish when residents have a seat at the table, community voices shape the vision, and we work together to bring that vision to life. I am incredibly proud of my Ward 5 team, whose hard work, dedication, and countless hours of collaboration helped move this vision forward and turn our community's ideas into reality.
Movies in the Park: Bringing Our Community Together!
The day after we celebrated the Grand Re-Opening of Santa Rita Park, we kept the festivities going with another Movies in the Park event on Saturday, October 3. Families and neighbors returned to the park for an evening under the stars filled with laughter, activity, and time together in the newly transformed space.
Then, on Saturday, October 24, we brought Movies in the Park to Gunny Barreras Memorial Park, where families of all ages gathered for another special evening of community, refreshments, and fun. We screened Coco and created a community Ofrenda, and I am especially grateful to everyone who brought photos of loved ones to help us honor and remember those who remain close to our hearts.
Movies in the Park are about so much more than entertainment. They are about bringing our community together, creating safe and welcoming spaces for our youth and families, and reactivating our neighborhood parks and green spaces as places where everyone can gather, connect, and enjoy the outdoors. These events give families an opportunity to spend quality time together, build lasting memories, gather resources and experience the parks that belong to their community.
I believe our parks should be active, welcoming spaces where families feel connected and our youth have positive opportunities to engage with their neighbors. By bringing free community events directly into our neighborhoods, we are making these spaces more accessible and strengthening the connections that make Ward 5 special.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make this first-ever event such a success! A special thank you to Tucson Electric Power (TEP) for sponsoring the series, along with our partners: Tucson Parks and Recreation, Tucson Police Department (TPD), Mini Poderosas, the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona, and the local food trucks for helping bring these events to Ward 5.
Honoring the History That Built Our Community
South Park Avenue holds an important place in Tucson’s history, shaped by generations of families, entrepreneurs, and community leaders whose contributions helped define the character of our south side. I recently learned more about that history after coming across the trailer for the documentary 2032 South Park Avenue on social media. Our office reached out to filmmaker Shanda Pierce and executive producer Gwen Pierce, who are family members of Lula Hunter and Walter Hopkins, to learn more about their family’s connection to South Park Avenue and the legacy preserved through the documentary. We also connected with Rhonda Moniz, daughter of Charles Kendrick, to learn more about her family’s history and the role they played in shaping this important part of our community.
Photo Credit: Dama Federico @hvnsessence
From the 1940s through the 1980s, South Park Avenue was home to a thriving network of Black-owned businesses that created jobs, supported families, and helped establish a strong foundation for future generations. These businesses were more than places of commerce; they were gathering places that fostered entrepreneurship, culture, and community pride. It was a joy to join community members for a special celebration honoring these historic businesses and the documentary 2032 South Park Avenue, which preserves the stories of Hopkins Fashions & Sounds and the generations of families, entrepreneurs, and neighbors who helped make South Park Avenue an important center of Black business and culture.
At our October 20 Mayor and Council meeting, Mayor Regina Romero and my colleagues on the City Council joined in recognizing the historic Black-owned businesses of South Park Avenue and their lasting contributions to Tucson through an official proclamation. We had the opportunity to recognize Walter Hopkins and Lula Hunter (posthumously) of Hopkins Fashions & Sounds, along with Charles Kendrick, whose legacy includes Ken's Market, the Black History Museum, and Mr. K's BBQ.
Photo Credit: Dama Federico @hvnsessence
As we continue investing in South Park Avenue, we must ensure that the families who helped build this community are part of its future and that their stories are never forgotten. Preserving our history is not simply about looking back; it is about carrying forward the resilience, entrepreneurship, and community spirit that can inspire future generations. Our office is also working to bring a screening of 2032 South Park Avenue to Ward 5. I look forward to creating another opportunity for residents to learn about the people, businesses, and stories that helped shape our community. By honoring those who came before us, we can better understand where we came from and create new possibilities for where we are going. Stay tuned for more information!
Celebrating Children and Nature Week in Tucson
Following our recognition of the historic Black-owned business of South Park Avenue, we continued the evening with another meaningful proclamation recognizing the third week of October as Children and Nature Week in the City of Tucson and Pima County.
It was an honor to join Mayor Regina Romero, my City Council colleagues, Pima County, and community partners in celebrating the work of the Pima County Connecting Children to Nature Coalition and its Children’s Outdoor Rights initiative. Shaped by local youth, caregivers, families, educators, and community leaders, this effort is rooted in a simple but important belief: every child deserves the opportunity to play outside, breath clean air, explore nature, observe wildlife, experience our dark skies, and build a connection to the Sonoran Desert we call home.
Photo Credit: Dama Federico @hvnsessence
Access to nature is about much more than recreation. Outdoor spaces support healthy childhood development, family wellness, environmental education, and stronger connections to our community. Yet not every family has the same access to parks, trails, transportation, shade, or outdoor learning opportunities. Continuing to invest in accessible parks, gardens, nature-based play, and programs for children and families is an important part of creating more equitable opportunities for our young people.
I was grateful to hear from the many partners who have helped move this work forward, including representatives from the Pima County Connecting Children to Nature Coalition, United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona, Tucson Parks and Recreation, Tucson Water, Storm to Shade, and Children’s Museum Tucson, among others.
Thank you to everyone who has championed this effort and continues working to make nature more accessible to children and families throughout our community. When we give young people opportunities to experience the outdoors for themselves, we help nurture the next generation of neighbors and environmental stewards who will care for the Sonoran Desert long into the future.
Community Pride in Western Hills II Neighborhood
It was wonderful to see the Western Hills II Neighborhood come together for a morning of community cleanup, connection, and neighborhood pride. Neighbors, families, and friends showed up early last Saturday to help make shared spaces cleaner, safer and more welcoming. This effort was led by Arnold Montiel, President of the Western Hills II Neighborhood Association, with support from Barrio Restoration, and reflected the kind of community spirit that makes our neighborhoods stronger.
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After a morning of hard work, everyone came together to enjoy a well-earned carne asada and spend time with neighbors and meet at Willie Blake Jr. Park. Thank you to Arnold Montiel Jr, President of Western Hills Neighborhood Association and the rest of the group, Barrio Restoration, Willie Blake, Jr. and every resident and volunteer who gave their time and energy to care for the neighborhood. Efforts like this are a great reminder that when neighbors come together, even small acts can make a meaningful difference.
Celebrating Legacy, Community, and Soul
It was an honor to attend the African American Museum Gala on October 9, where community members came together in their finest 70s-inspired style for an evening filled with music, dancing, conversation, and celebration.
From Soul Train-style dancing to the Psychedelic Shack photo booth, the evening was full of joy while also creating space to recognize individuals whose work continues to strengthen and preserve Tucson’s African American history and community.
The Legacy of Soul Award was presented to Mr. Larry Starks and Ms. Barbara Lewis in recognition of their lifelong dedication to preserving Tucson’s roots. Trehon and Carmishun Coleman of A Better Community – Connections That Count received the Community Groove Award for their commitment to meaningful community impact, and Ms. Jordan Hart was honored with the Rising Star Award for her work as a community activist, educator, and author inspiring the next generation.
I am grateful to have shared in such a special evening celebrating history, service, and the people who continue to make a difference in our community. Congratulations to all of this year’s honorees and thank you to everyone who helped make the gala such a memorable celebration.
Exploring the History of Tucson’s Southside
It was a pleasure to welcome approximately fifty students from the University of Arizona’s Public & Applied Humanities PAH 420 class, led by Dr. Jacqueline Barrios, to the Tucson Wagon & History Museum, located at 4823 S. 6th Avenue for a deeper look at the history and cultural heritage of Tucson’s Southside.
Alongside members of the Tucson Rodeo Parade Committee, I had the opportunity to share some of the history of the museum, the Rodeo Grounds, and the many people, events, and traditions that have shaped this part of our community over the 102 years. The students are currently working on a mapping assignment that explores the many uses, cultures, and experiences connected to these historic grounds. I appreciated the opportunity to hear their questions and see them engage directly with the stories and places that continue to shape Tucson.
Thank you to Dr. Barrios, the University of Arizona students, the Tucson Rodeo Parade Committee, and the Tucson Wagon & History Museum for helping preserve and share this important part of our community’s history. Opportunities like this help connect the next generation with the stories, culture, and legacy that make the Southside such a meaningful part of Tucson.
Celebrating Lorraine Lee: A Legacy of Advocacy, Community & Environmental Justice
It was an honor to join community members, advocates, students, family and close friends for the unveiling of the Lorraine Lee mural at the University of Arizona’s Lotus Lounge. Designed by award-winning Chinese Canadian-American artist and educator Jenn Liv, whose work has been featured in The New York Times, NPR, and The Washington Post, the mural beautifully captures Lorraine’s legacy. Featuring figures representing the Tucson community and a Sonoran Desert sunset transitioning into waves, the artwork symbolizes Lorraine’s dedication to fighting water contamination and advocating for environmental justice.
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Lorraine spent years fighting for the health and well-being of her neighborhood, reminding us that community advocacy, environmental justice, and equity are deeply interconnected. The October 7 unveiling marked the culmination of the University of Arizona’s three-part Spaces for Solidarity: Honoring Lorraine Lee series, celebrating the power of activism, resilience, and community. Thank you to the University of Arizona’s Dr. Jacqueline Barrios, Kenny Wong and Kenneth Importante for making this project a reality and ensuring community voices guided the process every step of the way.
I am grateful to have been part of this special tribute. May this mural serve as a lasting reminder of Lorraine’s courage, commitment, and impact and inspire future generations to continue the work of building a healthier, more equitable, and just Tucson. Thank you to the University of Arizona.
I am grateful to have been part of this special tribute. May this mural serve as a lasting reminder of Lorraine’s courage, commitment, and impact and inspire future generations to continue the work of building a healthier, more equitable, and just Tucson. Thank you to the University of Arizona
Her legacy lives on through the community she fought for and the work that continues today. You can read more about the mural HERE.
Cyclovia: Where Community, Movement & Connection Meet!
On Sunday, October 25, we joined thousands of community members for the 25th Cyclovia Tucson, a day dedicated to bringing people together, celebrating active transportation, and reimagining how we use our streets! Organized by Living Streets Alliance, Cyclovia temporarily transforms city streets into car-free public spaces where people of all ages and abilities can walk, bike, skate, roll, play, and connect. With local businesses, food trucks, performances, activities, and community organizations along the route, it turns our streets into one big neighborhood celebration!
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One of the biggest highlights for me was seeing Friends of Santa Rita and Mini Poderosas out there together; it was a special reminder of the connections we continue to build across our community. I also had an unforgettable moment when 13-year-old Samuelle and his dad, Saul, from the Genuine BMX Crew, rode their bikes and flew right over my head! It was so much fun to experience firsthand the talent, energy, and excitement they bring to BMX. I am incredibly grateful for the work they are doing to get more kids on bikes, create positive outlets for our youth, and make cycling accessible, exciting, and welcoming for everyone. Providing young people with opportunities to explore new interests, build confidence, and connect with positive mentors is so important.
  Events like Cyclovia remind us that our streets can be more than places for cars; they can be places where families connect, young people discover new interests, local organizations shine, and our community comes together. A big thank-you to Living Streets Alliance and all the organizations, businesses, volunteers, and community partners who helped make this event possible. I look forward to seeing everyone at the next Cyclovia!
Beneath Our Streets, Protecting Tucson’s Water Future
It was a unique opportunity to join fellow elected officials, Ward staff, and representatives from Congresswoman Grijalva’s and Senator Gallego’s offices for a firsthand look at the important work happening beneath our streets to protect Tucson’s water system.
Together, we joined Tucson Water crews inside a 96-inch water main near Starr Pass Boulevard and learned more about the City’s Pipeline Protection Program. Crews regularly inspect pipes for signs of damage, use sound sensors to identify potential warning signs, and protect metal components from corrosion. They also evaluate which parts of the system face the greatest risk so repairs or replacements can be planned before a major break occurs.
This work is essential to keeping water service reliable, reducing the costs and damage that can come with emergency repairs, and making smarter long-term investments in our infrastructure.
Much of this work happens out of sight, but its impact is felt every day. By identifying problems early and planning ahead, Tucson Water is helping protect reliable water service for today’s residents while also preparing for the needs of future generations.
Weekly Community Circles Coming to El Pueblo Neighborhood Center
I am proud to partner with Boys to Men Tucson to bring weekly community circles to the El Pueblo Neighborhood Center, creating a supportive space where young people can talk, connect, and build healthy coping skills.
Beginning November 3, youth ages 13 to 18 are invited to participate every Tuesday from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. Through small-group mentoring led by trained mentors, participants will have opportunities to build confidence, strengthen communication skills, recognize and manage emotions, and learn healthy ways to navigate stress and conflict.
The circles are designed to give young people a safe and welcoming environment where they can share their experiences, feel heard, and grow alongside their peers. Participants can also enjoy snacks, prizes, and quarterly outings, and youth who attend five circles will receive a $20 gift card.
Community circles will take place at El Pueblo Neighborhood Center, 101 W. Irvington Road, Building 1. Drop-ins are welcome, with simple registration and parent or guardian consent required at the first visit. For more information, call 520-344-3624, visit www.btmtucson.com, or email information@btmtucson.com.
Gourd Necklace Workshop with Agnes Attakai
Ward 5 is proud to sponsor a free Gourd Necklace Workshop as part of Alianza Tecuani’s Fall Community Gathering!
Join Agnes Attakai on Saturday, November 7, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. for an opportunity to create and decorate your own gourd necklace while spending time in community and learning through art and creativity.
The workshop will take place at a location in Ward 5, with the address provided upon RSVP. Space is limited, so community members are encouraged to register in advance using the QR code or by clicking the registration link.
For questions or assistance registering, contact jstorres@indigenousalliance.org.
We are grateful to Alianza Tecuani and Agnes Attakai for bringing this special community gathering to Ward 5 and creating an opportunity for residents to connect, create, and celebrate together.
Open Studio Tours Comes to Ward 5
I invite our community to join us on Friday, November 13, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. as the Ward 5 Council Office welcomes artist Luck Salway as part of the Open Studio Tours 2026, sponsored by the Arts Foundation.
This is a wonderful opportunity to support local artists, experience their work, and celebrate the creativity that adds so much to our Tucson community.
I hope you’ll stop by the Ward 5 Office and join us! To learn more about the Open Studio Tours and find other participating artists and locations throughout Tucson, visit the Arts Foundation website.
Join Us for the Ward 5 Neighborhood Nexus
 I invite our Ward 5 neighbors to join us for our upcoming Ward 5 Neighborhood Nexus on Thursday, November 19 at 5:30 p.m. at the Ward 5 Council Office, 4300 S. Park Avenue.
This gathering will be an opportunity to meet fellow neighbors, hear from community leaders, and take part in a conversation about how we can continue strengthening and supporting our community together.
Events like this are an important way for us to stay connected, share ideas, and hear directly from the people who know our neighborhoods best. I hope you’ll join us and be part of the conversation.
To RSVP, call 520-791-4231, email ward5@tucsonaz.gov, or reach out to us on Instagram at @tucsonward5.
Tucsonans Talk Displacement: Community Listening Sessions
 The City of Tucson wants to hear directly from residents and families who have experienced displacement because of urban renewal, government action, rising rents, or natural disasters. These upcoming hearings and listening sessions will help inform the development of a community preference policy and ensure that lived experiences are part of the conversation.
Community members can participate in person at the following locations:
- Santa Rosa Neighborhood Center on Thursday, November 19 at 5:30 p.m.
- Donna Liggins Recreation Center on Saturday, November 21 at 9:00 a.m.
- A virtual Zoom session will also be held on Monday, November 23 at 5:30 p.m. Register for the virtual listening session
Free food and children’s activities will be available at the in-person sessions. Spanish interpretation will be provided, and residents who need interpretation in another language or accessibility accommodations are encouraged to email SPACE-HCD@tucsonaz.gov at least two business days before the meeting.
The Ward 5 Team is working with the SPACE-HCD team to find a date for an additional session in Ward 5 in December.
If you are unable to attend a session, you can still share your feedback by emailing SPACE-HCD@tucsonaz.gov before January 1. I encourage residents with experiences of displacement to make their voices heard and help shape policies that better reflect the needs of our community.
From That To This: Book Launch Celebration with Desiree L. Cook
I am honored to host a special book launch celebration and signing with author Desiree L. Cook for her book, From That To This: Owning the Light of Your Own Amazingness.
Join us on Friday, November 20, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Quincie Douglas Center, 1575 E. 36th Street, as we come together to celebrate Desiree’s work and this exciting milestone.
This free community event will include a book signing, refreshments, and an opportunity to connect and celebrate a local author whose work encourages readers to embrace their own strength and light.
Admission is free, and community members are encouraged to RSVP using the QR code on the flyer.
I hope you’ll join us for an evening of celebration, community, and inspiration as we recognize Desiree and the launch of From That To This.
Click here to RSVP
Help Keep Our Students Warm: Annual Sock Drive
 Our Ward 5 Office is proud to partner with United Hearts of Arizona for its Annual Sock Drive to help keep local students warm this winter.
Community members are invited to donate new socks in all sizes now through December 11, 2026. All donations will support United Hearts of Arizona’s 13th Annual Shoe and Jacket Event, which will help more than 200 students across southern Pima County and the City of Tucson.
Every donation, large or small, can make a meaningful difference for a student and family in our community.
Donations can be dropped off at the Ward 5 Council Office, 4300 S. Park Avenue. For more information, call 520-791-4231.
Thank you to everyone who helps us support our students and ensure they have what they need to stay warm this season.
Housing for Heroes: Supporting Veteran Families
Veterans and their families deserve access to safe, stable housing and the support they need to build long-term stability. National Community Health Partners’ Housing for Heroes program provides housing stability services for low-income Veteran families who are experiencing homelessness or are at imminent risk of losing their housing.
Through the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program, eligible Veteran families may receive case management, housing navigation, assistance accessing VA and public benefits, transportation, legal and healthcare navigation, emergency housing assistance, and temporary financial support for needs such as rent, utilities, deposits, and moving costs.
The program focuses on both homelessness prevention and rapid rehousing, with the goal of helping Veteran families achieve and maintain permanent housing stability. Housing for Heroes has provided Veteran-centered supportive services since 2013 and currently serves families throughout Pima County and several other communities in Arizona.
Veterans and families in Pima County who may need assistance can contact the Housing for Heroes Pima Office at 201 N. Bonita Avenue, Suite 135, Tucson, AZ 85745, or call 928-750-6992. More information is also available at nchponline.org.
Upcoming Ward 5 Neighborhood Association Meetings
Neighborhood: South Park
Date: Monday, November 2
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Quincie Douglas Recreation Center (1575 E. 36th St.)
Neighborhood: Julia Keen
Date: Thursday, November 5
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: TPD - Operations Division Midtown (1100 S. Alvernon Way)
Neighborhood: Barrio Santa Rita - West Ochoa
Date: Monday, November 16
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: El Taco Rustico (1830 S. Park Ave.)
Neighborhood: Sunnyside
Date: Monday, November 16
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: El Pueblo Activity Center (101 W. Irvington Rd.)
Neighborhood: Pueblo Gardens
Date: Tuesday, November 17
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Quincie Douglas Recreation Center (1575 E. 36th St.)
Neighborhood: Las Vistas
Date: Tuesday, November 24
Time: 5:45 PM – 6:45 PM
Location: Quincie Douglas Library (1585 E. 36th St.)
Upcoming Mayor & Council Meeting
Date: Wednesday, November 4
Study Session: 1:00 PM
Regular Meeting: 5:30
Location: Tucson City Hall, Mayor & Council Chambers, 255 W. Alameda St.
Connect with Us!
The Ward 5 team can be reached at ward5@tucsonaz.gov and 520-791-4231. Our office is located at 4300 S. Park Ave., Tucson, AZ 85714.
Our office is open Monday - Thursday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM.
Fridays: Community Engagement, Off-site meetings (Office is closed to the public).
Until next time,
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