Visit Yuma's Sunshine Award 

Recognizing our community's frontline workforce 

To live is to experience, and it's those experiences that drive us to step out of our comfort zones and try new things. A location's reputation for having an amazing product may drive someone to visit, but it's the experience while they're there that will bring them back and more importantly prompt them to recommend their experience to someone else. Visit Yuma's mission is to share the beauty of the Desert Southwest with the world and although our community has plenty of attractions, it's the people that make the trip worth taking. 

The Visit Yuma Sunshine Award recognizes those individuals who go out of their way to make a patron's visit a memorable one. As a community, we'd like to thank those men and women who aspire to provide quality service, no matter what.

In partnership with the Yuma Sun, this program will recognize nominees every month. Those monthly entries recognized by the Yuma Sun will comprise the pool of candidates for the annual award provided by Visit Yuma. Each year during Visit Yuma's Annual Membership Meeting the winner or winners will be recognized and awarded with a prize and an honorary pin. Those chosen will also be recognized as Tourism Ambassadors promoting quality service and community empowerment.

Visit Yuma Sunshine Award nominees can be nominated by a direct supervisor, guest, or member of the community.  

NOMINATE SOMEONE TODAY 

Lilah Barrera, Sunkissed Coffee, recognized by a customer and is described as always making you feel like part of the family. She and her family are the kindest people to everyone who comes into the shop. Lilah even organizes and hosts other local businesses so patrons can learn about and support each other! She exudes sunshine to everyone around her!

Serena Green, Off the Charts Dispensary, received 8 nominations from her guests. She is described as patient and never making her guests feel rushed. She is extremely knowledgeable with all the products and happy to answer any questions.  She goes out of her way with guests and consistently displays a positive attitude, and great energy. 

Yanna Kruse, Yuma Territorial Prison, was recognized by a peer for always making a guest’s arrival at the Prison an experience that they will remember. From setting the ambiance the minute you walk in to the guided tours and her willingness to share its history throughout the park. She has trained her staff to also welcome all guests as kindly as she does and get them excited about Yuma's history!

Margarita Sells, Chevron (100 S. 4th Avenue location), was recognized by one of her customers as someone who embodies the spirit of excellence in customer service. Her commitment to providing fresh coffee, even during late-night hours, coupled with her positive attitude, sets her apart. Margarita goes the extra mile, genuinely caring about customers' well-being, often asking how they are feeling. This thoughtful gesture demonstrates her dedication to ensuring a positive experience beyond just serving coffee. By recognizing Margarita's efforts, we celebrate the often-overlooked contributions of service industry professionals like her, emphasizing the importance of genuine care and personalized service in hospitality.

Jazlyn Siqueiros, Yuma Art Center, was recognized by a peer for always having a positive attitude with every customer who calls or comes through the door. She goes above and beyond to make sure each person is attended to and acknowledged.  She has created great relationships with the artists and has become knowledgeable in each of the products to ensure she is able to give reliable information should anyone ask. Jazlyn is a kind, bubbly, hardworking employee who deserves to be recognized.

Kylie Umphress, Z Fun Factory/Waylon’s Water World, was nominated 6 times by guests and coworkers. She is described as the heart and soul of the operation, always working to ensure customer satisfaction. She is available to guests and always willing to answer questions.  She is willing to jump in wherever is needed and enjoys planning special events for the community. She has a passion for her job along with making sure customers get the best experience possible.