The San Diego Foundation (TSDF) got a $500,000 grant from the College Futures Foundation (CFF). Last year, CFF made an initial investment of the same amount in order to launch TSDF’s pilot project, the Community Scholars Initiative. The goal is to assist local low-income and first-generation students in paying for and finishing college. So far, the initiative has provided 150 South County students with scholarships and support through tutoring, counseling, and college preparation. An endowment of $1.6 million ensures these efforts continue into the future.
“Investing in our students is one of the impactful ways to support our region and future generations,” says Katie Rast, Director of Community Impact at The San Diego Foundation. “Today’s high school senior will be the leader of tomorrow’s economy. The additional grant support from College Futures Foundation will help us build a more inclusive economy and workforce, while creating a lifelong connection between San Diego students and the region.”
As part of its Feeding Seniors initiative, Feeding San Diego awarded $25,000 in grant funds to nine community partners that serve seniors in San Diego County. A Feeding America annual report found that in 2017, 1 in 12 seniors were food insecure. This initiative gets healthy meals out the door to nearly 5,000 food-insecure seniors every week. Feeding San Diego presented checks to Special Delivery San Diego, Alpha Project, Community Resource Center, Mountain Health and Community Services, Hope Through Housing, First Congregational Church of Ramona, Bread of Life, Ruth Anointed Worth Ministries, and City Heights Community Development Corporation.
Alyse Saucedo Optimist Oratorical World Championship
Optimist Oratorical World Championship winner Alyse Saucedo
Alyse Saucedo, a rising Junior at the Academy of Our Lady of Peace (OLP), won the 4th Annual Optimist Oratorical World Championship in July. She snagged an international title as well as a total of $22,500 in scholarship money. The competition began with 25,000 students competing in their local Optimist Oratorical Contests before the final World Championship took place at Saint Louis University. Alyse gave a speech on the topic, “Is there a fine line between optimism and reality?”
“We’re truly in awe of Alyse, who at such a young age, has demonstrated the poise and dedication of someone well advanced in years,” says Dr. Lauren Lek, Head of School. “Alyse is a student leader whose determination is fueled by passion and a commitment to excellence. We are blessed to have her here at the Academy of Our Lady of Peace and to support her academic journey.”
Read about more upcoming philanthropic events in The SoCal (Social Calendar).
The San Diego Foundation Receives $500,000 for its Community Scholars Initiative
Students receive college prep support and scholarships that will help them pursue their higher education dreams during the 2019-2020 school year
