The Guadalupe “Lupe” Sanchez Scholarship Program

Empowering Opportunity. Honoring Legacy.

The Guadalupe “Lupe” Sanchez Scholarship Program is a new initiative by Phenix Gateway, created to honor the life and legacy of Guadalupe Sanchez—a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and community member who lived with Down Syndrome. Though Lupe passed away in 1996 at the age of 60, her spirit of kindness, resilience, and unconditional love continues to inspire generations.

Lovingly known as Aunt Lupe by Phenix Gateway founder Angel Sanchez, Jr., she was a joyful soul who adored Elvis, Farrah Fawcett, and her large extended family. While she was cherished deeply by those around her, the world never afforded her the opportunity to pursue education or a career due to the limitations placed on individuals with disabilities at the time.

The Lupe Sanchez Scholarship is being created to ensure that others won’t face those same barriers.

This scholarship program will support individuals with intellectual, developmental, or physical disabilities in their pursuit of higher education, vocational training, or skilled trade certification, helping them access meaningful career pathways and independent futures.

Program Launch

The Guadalupe “Lupe” Sanchez Scholarship is currently in development and is expected to open for applications in 2026, supporting graduating students from the Inland Empire and surrounding communities.

Scholarship Details

Eligibility:

Applicants must:

Be an individual with an intellectual, developmental, or physical disability
Reside in the Inland Empire or nearby communities
Be a graduating high school senior or equivalent by spring 2026
Show proof of acceptance or enrollment in one of the following:
- Accredited four-year college or university
- Community college or two-year program
- Accredited trade or vocational school

Award Amounts:
Scholarships will range from $500 to $2,500, based on financial need and available funds.

Use of Funds:

Funds may be used to cover tuition, books, materials, or other eligible educational expenses.

Selection Criteria:

Demonstrated financial need
A personal statement on educational and career goals
A letter of recommendation from a teacher, counselor, or service provider
Proof of enrollment or acceptance

Number of Awards:
In its inaugural year, the program aims to award 3–5 scholarships, with the goal to expand annually as funding grows.

Building a Legacy of Access

This program is more than a tribute—it’s a movement. A way to transform Aunt Lupe’s story into action. By helping students achieve what was once denied to her, we carry her legacy forward and affirm our belief that everyone deserves a chance to learn, grow, and thrive.

How You Can Help

This program is made possible through generous donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations. If you’d like to support the Guadalupe “Lupe” Sanchez Scholarship and help us create educational opportunities for those too often left behind, please consider making a gift today.

Donate Now

For questions about partnership or sponsorship, please contact us at: scholarships@phenixgateway.org