Tucson, Arizona (Oct. 20, 2026)— PPEP, Inc. (Portable, Practical Educational Preparation), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of rural life, announces with deep sorrow the passing of its founder, Dr. John David Arnold, a visionary leader, humanitarian, and tireless advocate for farmworkers and rural communities.
Dr. Arnold founded PPEP in 1967 aboard a 1957 Chevrolet school bus known as “La Tortuga,” after being awarded an initial grant of $19,000 to support his vision of creating opportunities and improving lives throughout Arizona. From that humble beginning, he developed an international model of portable education and community development that has provided services to more than 4 million people across Arizona, the United States, Mexico, Africa, and other regions. His mission was always clear: “To improve the quality of rural life.”
Under his leadership, PPEP grew into a multifaceted organization offering human services, microbusiness programs, charter schools, job training, housing, health services, humanitarian aid, and support for individuals with developmental disabilities. His work was recognized in the U.S. Congressional Record, honored twice at the White House, and celebrated internationally, including receiving the prestigious Ohtli Award from the Government of Mexico.
Dr. Arnold dedicated his life to serving agricultural communities such as Sahuarita, Arivaca, Somerton, San Luis, Yuma, Eloy, Ciudad Obregón, Magdalena, among many others, promoting education, self-sufficiency, economic development, and dignity for working families.
His legacy can be seen at PPEP’s headquarters, located at 802 East 46th Street, Tucson, AZ 85713, home to the Farmworkers Hall of Fame, a space honoring the history of La Tortuga and the contributions of farmworkers.
The public may also visit PPEP’s official YouTube channel, where historical archives, documentaries, and educational materials are preserved: https://youtube.com/@dr.johnd.arnold4002
Dr. John David Arnold is remembered by his family, colleagues, and the thousands of people whose lives he touched with his motto: “Sí Se Pudo y Sí Se Podrá!” His mission to “improve the quality of rural life” will continue guiding PPEP’s work for generations. For more information, visit www.ppep.org.