Meet Helios Ready Now Yuma Scholar: Epiphany Jones

Kofa High School, Class of 2019

Arizona State University

The Helios Scholarship represents more than financial support—it symbolizes belief in the potential of students from underrepresented communities. It gave me the foundation to pursue higher education, which has transformed my life, inspired my path of service, and fueled my passion to advocate for equity. Through this support, I’ve gained the resources and confidence to make a lasting impact and uplift the voices of underserved communities.

After being awarded the scholarship in 2019, I moved to Phoenix to pursue a bachelor’s degree in social work at Arizona State University, driven by a deep commitment to supporting communities like the one I come from. I faced challenges navigating higher education, but I remained focused on using my academic journey to create meaningful change.

After completing my undergraduate degree, I was accepted into the Advanced Standing Master of Social Work program at ASU’s Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions. I chose a concentration in Policy, Administration, and Community Practice to better understand the systems that impact low-income and BIPOC communities.

Since 2020, I’ve worked in both direct service and advocacy roles across Maricopa County. At the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, I led the pilot of the Workforce Development Program, providing unsheltered individuals in Sunnyslope and Central Phoenix with access to education, employment, housing resources, and case management. My role focused on post-intake support and allocating OPUS grant funds to empower guest volunteers.

As a graduate intern with ASU Action Nexus, I collaborated with Key Campus Inc. (formerly the Human Services Campus) on advocacy and systems-change projects aimed at improving services for unsheltered populations. These experiences deepened my passion for policy-informed practice and community-driven solutions.

After earning my graduate degree, I transitioned into full-time nonprofit work. I initially served as a clinician at a federally qualified health center (FQHC), and I now work as the AmeriCorps VISTA program manager with HandsOn Greater Phoenix—a nonprofit that mobilizes volunteers where they’re needed most.

My experience as a student has given me the opportunity to grow into the individual I am today, providing me with stability and opening doors to job opportunities.