To honor the life and legacy of El Paso entrepreneur, community leader, and philanthropist, the Arriola Family has established the Yolanda Arriola Memorial Fund for Children in the Paso del Norte Community Foundation.  Mrs. Arriola passed away suddenly on Thanksgiving Day.

“We are setting up the memorial fund to continue my mother’s legacy of supporting children’s causes.  Funds will be used to support charities that benefit and improve the lives of children in our community,” said Ben Arriola, Yolanda’s son.  “She lived a life filled with love, happiness and kindness. The Yolanda Arriola Memorial Fund for Children will carry on the tremendous impact she has had on the community.”

Yolanda Arriola dedicated her life to improving the education and quality of life for children and youth in El Paso.  As founder and CEO of Southwest University, she helped grow the institution from a career college helping young people earn their GEDs to a university that enrolls 1,700 students a year. She volunteered and gave generously to multiple nonprofit organizations including the Child Crisis Center of El Paso, Aoy School, Make-A-Wish Foundation, and El Paso Children’s Hospital.  She was recognized in her life for leadership and contributions with the 2016 Texas Small Business Person of the Year and 2018 El Paso Inc Woman of Impact awards.

“The Yolanda Arriola Memorial Fund for Children commemorates Yolanda’s passion for helping others. Her love and light will carry on through her many contributions to our community and the work of this fund,” said Tracy Yellen, CEO of the Paso del Norte Community Foundation. 

To donate to the fund in honor and in memory of Yolanda’s meaningful life, click here.