The San Diego Foundation has launched a two-year pilot program that will help up to 300 local students get into college, pay for it, and stick with it to graduation. Fueled by a $500,000 grant from the College Futures Foundation, the new Community Scholars Initiative targets kids who, for financial reasons, might not have otherwise been able to go to college.
“The Community Scholars Initiative will help establish a more comprehensive and effective way to drive currently under-represented student success in higher education in our region,” said TDSF President and CEO Kathlyn Mead.
The initiative pairs needs-based scholarships with wraparound services, including help applying for scholarships, academic tutoring, family support, and counseling, as well as help with balancing education with part-time employment. In its first year, TSDF is partnering with the nonprofit Reality Changers and Mar Vista, Chula Vista, and Southwest high schools. Up to 80 students are expected to quality for and receive needs-based scholarships for the 2018-2019 academic year.
“Making this kind of difference requires a concerted effort from many who care, which is why The San Diego Foundation is working together with local school districts and community-based organizations to open up educational and economic opportunities for the next generation,” said Monica Lozano, College Futures Foundation president and CEO.
The San Diego Foundation Helps Even More Kids Go to College
Marge and Neal Schmale. | Photo: Serving Seniors
Marge and Neal Schmale. | Photo: Serving Seniors
An under construction low-income senior housing project in Ramona will be named for longtime Serving Seniors supporters Margaret and Neal Schmale. The La Jolla couple’s naming gift donation, reportedly $500,000, is going toward a 62-unit apartment complex on 16th Street known as Schmale Family Senior Residence that’s slated to open next spring.
“For many years, Neal and I have witnessed the exemplary work of Serving Seniors and the tremendous impact it has had improving the lives of vulnerable seniors,” Marge Schmale said. “We know affordable housing is the most important need for those in poverty and we couldn’t be more delighted to be part of this project.”
Serving Seniors also has communities for low-income seniors in Downtown San Diego and City Heights.
Episcopal Community Services’ ninth annual Water to Wine Gala raised more than $180,000 to support the charity’s programs that address homelessness, mental health, child development, and substance abuse. The elegant event at the San Diego Natural History Museum included a special tribute to Aimeclaire Roche, who will soon be leaving her position as head of The Bishop’s School in La Jolla. The night also featured a silent and live auction, along with music from Crown Town with Matt Heinecke.
The San Diego Foundation Helps Even More Kids Go to College
Students and donors pose for a photo at The San Diego Foundation Scholarship Celebration.
