Kino Border Initiative advances Migrant Community Campus in Nogales

Kino Border Initiative is advancing plans for a Migrant Community Campus next to its Migrant Outreach Center in Nogales. The organization recently shared a community-based design for the project, which is intended to offer migrants support, stability and a sense of belonging.

KBI bought two acres for the campus in 2023. The site has already hosted soccer games, field days and community cookouts. The organization says the campus will provide more than emergency assistance, including spaces for healing, education, recreation, prayer and gathering.

The design was shaped through workshops with migrants, children, staff and volunteers. Planned features include play areas, shaded patios, flexible rooms for services and workshops, wellness spaces, public art and a Way of the Cross walking path. KBI said the campus will be able to change as community needs evolve.

The campaign has raised $2,976,620, but KBI says it still needs $3.6 million to finish construction. Migrants who use the organization’s services have described the project as a hopeful place that could help more people and give children a safe space to play.