As a local nonprofit organization, 211 San Diego is the region’s trusted source for information and connections to community, health, and disaster resources. Help is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and in more than 200 languages.
Description of Services:
As a local nonprofit organization, 211 San Diego is the region’s trusted source for information and connections to community, health, and disaster resources. Help is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and in more than 200 languages. We maintain a database of more than 6,000 services and resources that are updated on a real-time basis and our Community Connectors help connect San Diegans to the accurate information they need.
We believe access to health and social services provides a foundation for individuals and families to build and sustain
healthy lives, so we’re collaborating with service providers in the San Diego region to build a more efficient, equitable, and accessible system that addresses the whole health of a person through integrated, person-centered care.
We are a comprehensive, top-tier program that supports former foster youth at California State University San Marcos. Our mission is to transform the lives of foster youth through higher education — and we’re doing exactly that.
Description of Services:
We are a comprehensive, top-tier program that supports former foster youth at California State University San Marcos. Our mission is to transform the lives of foster youth through higher education — and we’re doing exactly that.
Additional Information:
Office located in Craven Hall 3400.
At Another Round Another Rally, we do more than provide hospitality workers with emergency aid, transformative scholarships and reimbursement grants – we also create ripples of positive change that resonate industry-wide.
Description of Services:
At Another Round Another Rally, we do more than provide hospitality workers with emergency aid, transformative scholarships and reimbursement grants – we also create ripples of positive change that resonate industry-wide.
From amplifying the voices of marginalized community members to championing diversity, expanding educational opportunities and encouraging innovation, we make impactful, strategic moves that unite, enrich and uplift the heart and soul of the hospitality community.
This year, JBAY is expanding the Burton Book Fund to pay expenses related to youths’ critical needs and opportunities. Welcome to the Burton Critical Needs and Opportunity Fund!
Description of Services:
This year, JBAY is expanding the Burton Book Fund to pay expenses related to youths’ critical needs and opportunities. Welcome to the Burton Critical Needs and Opportunity Fund!
Additional Information:
Through this event and other contributions raised, funds are allocated for foster youth enrolled in CA colleges and universities taking at least 9 units of credit.
Cal-SOAP is dedicated to providing information about postsecondary education and financial aid to elementary through high school students while raising their academic achievement levels. In particular, Cal-SOAP is committed to providing services to students from any of the following backgrounds:
Description of Services:
Cal-SOAP is dedicated to providing information about postsecondary education and financial aid to elementary through high school students while raising their academic achievement levels. In particular, Cal-SOAP is committed to providing services to students from any of the following backgrounds:
Low-income families
Families in which they would be the first to attend college
Schools with documented low eligibility or college participation rates or
Geographic areas with documented low eligibility or college participation rates
Additional Information:
Working under the direction of the California Student Aid Commission, the California Student Opportunity and Access Program (Cal-SOAP) has represented the educational community throughout the state since 1978. The program is operated in partnership with the University of California system, the California State University system, local non-profit agencies and public elementary and secondary school districts. The San Diego and Imperial Counties Cal-SOAP Consortium is one of the largest of the sixteen Cal-SOAP consortia throughout the state. In recent years, the consortium has expanded to serve North San Diego County as well as the entire Imperial County area. With this expansion effort, the San Diego and Imperial Counties Consortium offers a broad range of services tailored specifically to serve both urban and rural populations in one central and two satellite locations.
The California Chafee Grant for Foster Youth (Chafee Grant) awards up to $5,000 a year to eligible foster youth. The Chafee Grant may be used at any eligible California college or university, or career or technical school. Students attending schools in other states may also qualify. A student’s receipt of a Chafee Grant award shall not exceed five years (whether or not consecutive).
Description of Services:
The California Chafee Grant for Foster Youth (Chafee Grant) awards up to $5,000 a year to eligible foster youth. The Chafee Grant may be used at any eligible California college or university, or career or technical school. Students attending schools in other states may also qualify. A student’s receipt of a Chafee Grant award shall not exceed five years (whether or not consecutive).
Students must :
Be a current or former foster youth who was a ward of the court, living in foster care, between the ages of 16 and 18.
Not have reached their 26th birthday as of July 1st of the award year.
Be enrolled in an eligible vocational school or college courses at least half-time.
For eligible California residents, the California Community Colleges Promise Grant permits enrollment fees to be waived. (Assistance for the purchase of books and supplies must be applied for separately.) Many California community colleges offer online BOG Fee Waiver applications through CCCApply.
Description of Services:
For eligible California residents, the California Community Colleges Promise Grant permits enrollment fees to be waived. (Assistance for the purchase of books and supplies must be applied for separately.) Many California community colleges offer the online application through CCCApply.
Additional Information:
When you use these financial aid online applications, the data you’ve entered in CCCApply will be transferred automatically, making your financial aid application much easier and faster.
CaliforniaColleges.edu is California’s official college and career planning platform. Lessons and tools help students discover goals for life after high school, make plans to achieve them, and launch their futures. It’s free for California 6th – 12th grade students, their parents, and educators.
Description of Services:
CaliforniaColleges.edu is California’s official college and career planning platform. Lessons and tools help students discover goals for life after high school, make plans to achieve them, and launch their futures. It’s free for California 6th – 12th grade students, their parents, and educators.
What kind of life do you want after high school? CaliforniaColleges.edu will help you figure it out and give you the tools to make it happen.
Discover your interests and values.
Find careers, colleges, or training to reach your goals.
Our program provides young adults 18 – 25 years old a year of paid service to the State of California. During their year of service, Corpsmembers work on environmental projects and respond to natural and man-made disasters. Through this work, they gain skills and experience that lead to meaningful careers.
Description of Services:
Our program provides young adults 18 – 25 years old a year of paid service to the State of California. During their year of service, Corpsmembers work on environmental projects and respond to natural and man-made disasters. Through this work, they gain skills and experience that lead to meaningful careers.
The California Conservation Corps offers a unique and challenging, paid experience for young adults from across the state. A year in the CCC transforms their lives through developing new job skills, expanding personal growth, and conserving California’s natural resources. Corpsmembers’ hard work and long hours on environmentally focused projects and emergency response help make California an even better place for all.
Gain the tools to advance your career and education. We support you from enrollment to graduation, to help ensure that you can achieve your goals. After completing the two-week prerequisite course: if you are offered a California Career Online High School scholarship, you will be assigned an academic coach who will provide ongoing support and help you stay on track. When you need extra academic support, a certified instructor is there for you, too.
Description of Services:
Gain the tools to advance your career and education. We support you from enrollment to graduation, to help ensure that you can achieve your goals.
After completing the two-week prerequisite course: if you are offered a California Career Online High School scholarship, you will be assigned an academic coach who will provide ongoing support and help you stay on track. When you need extra academic support, a certified instructor is there for you, too.
You earn both your high school diploma and a certificate in your chosen career path.
You create a career portfolio containing important job documents such as your resume and cover letters.
It may be possible for you to transfer credits from previously completed accredited high school courses, shortening your completion time. The average time to complete is 12 months. You will be given up to 18 months to complete the program.
Courses are taught in an online learning environment available 24/7 days.
The program is self-directed but plan to devote at least 8-10 hours each week to coursework; each credit is designed to be completed over the course of one month.
Each student is assigned an academic coach who offers ongoing support and connects you with additional instructional help when needed.
CashCourse is a free, online financial education resource designed specifically for college and university students. Created with input from real students and universities, CashCourse equips students with information that helps them make informed financial decisions, from orientation to graduation and beyond.
Description of Services:
CashCourse is a free, online financial education resource designed specifically for college and university students. Created with input from real students and universities, CashCourse equips students with information that helps them make informed financial decisions, from orientation to graduation and beyond.
CashCourse was created in 2007 by the independently funded National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE), the nation’s leading 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring empowered financial decision-making for individuals and families through every stage of life. Learn more about NEFE at www.nefe.org.
CashCourse is used by more than 70,000 students in more than 900 schools—including small private colleges, large public universities, and both two-year and four-year programs—in all 50 states.
Additional Information:
CashCourse provides unbiased, ad-free financial information that is independent of commercial interests. The program takes a whole-life approach to personal finance, with resources on Financial basics like banking, budgeting, credit, debt, savings, and insurance; Funding higher education, repaying student loans, study abroad and graduate and professional degrees; Shopping, spending, housing, and transportation costs; Entering the working world, understanding benefits, negotiating a salary and career planning; Life transitions, dealing with roommates, buying a home and starting a family; and Financial crises, income gaps, scams, and emergency preparedness. CashCourse also offers a number of interactive tools for students, including Quizzes, worksheets, calculators, and a Budget Wizard; Helpful content such as articles, videos, and a dictionary of financial terms; and Information that is easy to understand and continually updated.
Certified Nursing Assistant Program (Dalrada Career Institute)
Details
Take charge of your career and become a certified nursing assistant with training from the International Health Group. We provide certified schooling and flexible scheduling for your convenience. We pride ourselves on our high testing scores and high passing rate for the state CNA tests.
Description of Services:
CDPH Approved CNA Training Program
Take charge of your career and become a certified nursing assistant with training from the International Health Group. We provide certified schooling and flexible scheduling for your convenience. We pride ourselves on our high testing scores and high passing rate for the state CNA tests. Our experienced instructors are ready to help you!
A certified nursing assistant, or CNA, offers patients compassion and patience while assisting them with day-to-day life tasks such as dressing, bathing and feeding. Under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), you as a CNA will support doctors and nurses in diagnostic procedures and technical treatments. Also known as a Nursing Assistant (NA), you will typically assist in patient charting and instruction, documenting any care that is given and report significant observations to the nursing staff.
We are a state testing center for CNA certification. Ask us about our work scholarship programs! We have same-day and walk-in appointments available for new students!
Our CNA training is approved by the California Department of Public Health(CDPH). Upon satisfactory completion of the course, each graduate will receive a certificate of eligibility so as to take the State Competency Test through the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP). This exam will test both theory and skills learned during the training. All nurse assistant students must pass this state certification exam to become certified nursing assistants in the State of California.
PROGRAM SCHEDULE
Weekday. Evening and Weekend Training 20 Days – 160 Hours This is 160 hours of training combined with a lecture, lab, and clinical externship.
College Board reaches more than 7 million students a year, helping them navigate the path from high school to college and career. Our not-for-profit membership organization was founded more than 120 years ago.
Description of Services:
College Board reaches more than 7 million students a year, helping them navigate the path from high school to college and career. Our not-for-profit membership organization was founded more than 120 years ago. We pioneered programs like the SAT® and AP® to expand opportunities for students and help them develop the skills they need. Our BigFuture® program helps students plan for college, pay for college, and explore careers.
Every year, thousands of California students receive excellent financial support from the state which allows them to pursue higher education at publicly and privately funded postsecondary institutions in the state.
Description of Services:
Every year, thousands of California students receive excellent financial support from the state which allows them to pursue higher education at publicly and privately funded postsecondary institutions in the state. Students from California can also take advantage of grants offered through foundations and schools and community organizations. In addition, businesses and organizations in a student’s local area may offer special scholarships and grant programs to local students.
Of course, California students are also qualified to receive grant and loan assistance through the federal government. The initial step in almost all grant applications is the completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The FAFSA can be filled out online.
We believe all students deserve access to technology in order to participate on a level playing field. Students with access to readily available technology will reduce wait times in libraries, reduce school staff workloads, and give the ability for students to take their time while using technology.
Description of Services:
Our mission is to help meet the growing demand for technology in classrooms for low-income earners and other eligible candidates. Our staff and volunteers process donated PCs for recycling and sale. All computers are offered at a discount to those who are eligible.
We believe all students deserve access to technology in order to participate on a level playing field. Students with access to readily available technology will reduce wait times in libraries, reduce school staff workloads, and give the ability for students to take their time while using technology.
Computers with Causes, a nonprofit organization committed to bridging the digital gap, invites individuals and organizations to participate in our Free Computer Program. By providing refurbished computers, we empower lives, foster education, and create opportunities for all.
Description of Services:
Computers with Causes, a nonprofit organization committed to bridging the digital gap, invites individuals and organizations to participate in our Free Computer Program. By providing refurbished computers, we empower lives, foster education, and create opportunities for all. Our computers undergo rigorous refurbishment, ensuring reliability and performance. By reusing technology, you contribute to a greener planet.
We invite anyone in need of a working computer to complete the application below. We have a full list of the causes we support (causes) with our main emphasis being the assistance of; students, teachers, and parents, the elderly, foster homes, shelters, disabled US veterans and struggling military families, and like-minded nonprofit organizations.
How It Works:
Download the Application:Individuals or Organizations Fill It Out: Provide essential details about yourself or your organization. Print and Mail: Print the form, sign it, and mail it to the address provided.
Who Can Apply? Individuals: Students, job seekers, seniors — everyone deserves access to technology. Organizations: Schools, nonprofits, community centers—spread the word!
Computers 2 Kids (C2K) is a leading advocate for Digital Equity by recycling and refurbishing computers and providing affordable access for the technologically underserved. Paired with training, connectivity, and support, C2K creates digital inclusion, which strengthens Health, Educational, and Economic Equity.
Description of Services:
Computers 2 Kids (C2K) is a leading advocate for Digital Equity by recycling and refurbishing computers and providing affordable access for the technologically underserved. Paired with training, connectivity, and support, C2K creates digital inclusion, which strengthens Health, Educational, and Economic Equity.Our vision is that everyone has the resources needed to access technology, the internet, and digital literacy for full participation in our society.
Studies show that even taking into account socioeconomic status, children with home computers perform at higher academic levels across the board. As our society becomes more dependent on technology, the best gift we can give our children is access to computers. The digital divide – a chasm that separates those with access to technology from those without – reduces the chance of success in life for low-income children and perpetuates poverty.
Since 1978, Cuyamaca College has provided a solid education to students, whether they’re beginning their university degree at Cuyamaca, returning to school to launch a career or to acquire new skills or enrolling in an innovative occupational program.
Description of Services:
Since 1978, Cuyamaca College has provided a solid education to students, whether they’re beginning their university degree at Cuyamaca, returning to school to launch a career or to acquire new skills or enrolling in an innovative occupational program. With its vision of “Learning for the Future,” Cuyamaca College offers a wide scope of challenging courses, from drafting technology and child development to paralegal training, from computer and information science or ornamental horticulture to automotive technology. With 81 degree programs and 66 certificates offered at Cuyamaca College, learning opportunities abound under the tutelage of highly-qualified, dynamic instructors imbued with a love of teaching.
As a trusted institution for those most in need—already supporting adult literacy and workforce development—the public library is the perfect space for a high school completion program. With Gale Presents: Excel Adult High School, your library can reengage adult learners and help them reach a brighter future.
Description of Services:
As a trusted institution for those most in need—already supporting adult literacy and workforce development—the public library is the perfect space for a high school completion program. With Gale Presents: Excel Adult High School,your library can reengage adult learners and help them reach a brighter future.
Program Features
21.5-credit, college-prep curriculum aligned to national standards
Intuitive, anytime, anywhere online platform
Flexible, self-paced schedule—finish in 24 months or less
Previously earned high school, or GED®, HiSET®, and TASC credits accepted
Live, unlimited student tutoring through Train The Brain
Counseling team to assist with college or career planning
ELL (English-language learner) supported
College-level ACE (American Council on Education) courses available
Fastweb is a free scholarship search platform that connects students to scholarships and financial aid tools. Our goal is to help you find scholarships to make school more affordable.
Description of Services:
Fastweb is a free scholarship search platform that connects students to scholarships and financial aid tools. Our goal is to help you find scholarships to make school more affordable.
The leading scholarship database, our platform is designed to simplify the scholarship search for high school and college students. No more digging to find scholarships you qualify for. Students create a profile and get personalized scholarship recommendations.
Fastweb isn’t just for scholarships. We provide students and their parents with helpful information to help them navigate the college journey– from college-bound status through college, graduate school, and career.
Find free or reduced-cost resources like food, housing, financial assistance, health care, and more.
Help starts here.
Description of Services:
Find free or reduced-cost resources like food, housing, financial assistance, health care, and more. Help starts here.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, chat with them online via their website, or text HOME to 741741 (multiple languages available). If this is an emergency, call 911.
FC2S partners with organizations, foundations, and individuals to deliver scholarships to foster youth across the country. With this funding and our support, hundreds of young people reach their educational goals every year.
Description of Services:
FC2S partners with organizations, foundations, and individuals to deliver scholarships to foster youth across the country. With this funding and our support, hundreds of young people reach their educational goals every year.
Foster Care to Success has provided scholarships since 1991; in 2000 we restructured the program and since then have awarded over $15M to 2,000 students in all 50 states. We are proud of our graduation rate of 65%, with a persistence rate of 75% – both higher than those of the general population of college students.
Foster Love is a non-profit that makes the foster care experience better for the 430,000 children going through it.
Description of Services:
Foster Love is a non-profit that makes the foster care experience better for the 430,000 children going through it.
There are over 430,000 children in foster care and only 214,421 licensed foster parents. This means foster parents and agencies are often left with limited resources. Together We Rise began as a sports camp offering after-school enrichment to foster youth who otherwise could not afford the activity. As the charity grew, we’ve tackled larger problems including access to higher education, emergency resources, and more.
Since 2015, Foster Love has partnered with private donors, college foster care support organizations, nonprofit partners, and government agencies to deliver over $8 million dollars in academic assistance directly to college students who have experienced the foster care system.
Foster Youth Education Services (San Diego County Office of Education)
Details
Under AB 854, the California Department of Education (CDE) administers the Foster Youth Services Coordinating Programs (FYSCPs) through county offices of education to provide support services to foster children who suffer the traumatic effects of displacement from family and schools and multiple placements in foster care.
Description of Services:
Under AB 854, the California Department of Education (CDE) administers the Foster Youth Services Coordinating Programs (FYSCPs) through county offices of education to provide support services to foster children who suffer the traumatic effects of displacement from family and schools and multiple placements in foster care. These FYSCPs have the ability and authority to ensure that health and school records are obtained to establish appropriate placements and coordinate instruction, counseling, tutoring, mentoring, vocational training, emancipation services, training for independent living, and other related services. The FYSCPs increase the stability of placements for foster children and youth. These services are designed to improve the children’s educational performance and personal achievement, directly benefiting them.
Foster Youth Scholars (California College Pathways)
Details
Foster youth support programs go by various names including NextUp, Guardian Scholars, Renaissance Scholars, or others. These programs can include peer advisors and personal counselors and can provide academic advising, housing assistance, tutoring and more!
Description of Services:
Foster youth support programs go by various names including NextUp, Guardian Scholars, Renaissance Scholars, or others. These programs can include peer advisors and personal counselors and can provide academic advising, housing assistance, tutoring, mentoring, financial assistance, special accommodations for students with disabilities, counseling, social activities, and many other resources.
John Burton Advocates for Youth maintains a database of all campuses in California with a program specifically for foster youth.
Each year as many as 400 youth “age out” of the foster care system in San Diego County at the age of 18. While many qualify for financial aid for education, this still leaves books, food, rent and transportation. This is where FOS comes in.
Description of Services:
Each year as many as 400 youth “age out” of the foster care system in San Diego County at the age of 18. While many qualify for financial aid for education, this still leaves books, food, rent and transportation. This is where FOS comes in. Since 2002, over $700,000 has been raised for scholarships. We have had 46 students graduate with higher education degrees and a total of 63 graduations. We are very proud to announce that 3 of our students have earned Master’s degrees and 1 has passed the bar examination!
Eligibility:
You must attend an accredited public college or university in San Diego County.
You must be enrolled for at least 9 credit hours per semester.
You must have a 2.0 GPA or above each semester.
Application Deadlines:
Fall – postmarked no later than June 30th.
Spring – postmarked no later than October 10th.
All students must submit the following documents:
Application– Download, fill in on your computer, print, sign, scan and e-mail to d.applebee@yahoo.com. Handwritten applications, except for signature, will not be accepted.
An OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT for your last semester as soon as it is available.
Proof of enrollment in a San Diego County college/university with at least 9 credit hours per semester.
First time applicants:
In addition to the documents above, new applicants must also submit:
Proof of having been in the San Diego County Foster Care Program (letter from CPS).
Fostering Quality Education empowers California’s foster youth to make fully informed decisions about their college options. These resources include finding out information on your school of choice, how to use financial aid wisely, what to look for when applying and visiting colleges, and knowing your rights.
Description of Services:
Fostering Quality Education empowers California’s foster youth to make fully informed decisions about their college options. These resources include finding out information on your school of choice, how to use financial aid wisely, what to look for when applying and visiting colleges, and knowing your rights.
At Fred Finch, these values are not just what we say, but what we do. You can see it in every program. Our staff is compassionate and committed, resourceful with your donations, and innovative in our solutions. We work with young people to overcome multiple and simultaneous challenges, including homelessness, economic disadvantage, mental health, and cognitive disabilities, and histories of significant trauma and loss.
Description of Services:
At Fred Finch, these values are not just what we say, but what we do. You can see it in every program. Our staff is compassionate and committed, resourceful with your donations, and innovative in our solutions. We work with young people to overcome multiple and simultaneous challenges, including homelessness, economic disadvantage, mental health, and cognitive disabilities, and histories of significant trauma and loss.
FSA, an office of the U.S. Department of Education (ED), is the largest provider of student financial aid in the nation. At FSA, our more than 1,400 employees help make postsecondary education possible for more than 9.7 million students each year.
Description of Services:
FSA, an office of the U.S. Department of Education (ED), is the largest provider of student financial aid in the nation. At FSA, our more than 1,400 employees help make postsecondary education possible for more than 9.7 million students each year.
FSA is responsible for managing the student financial assistance programs authorized under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965. These programs provide grant, work-study, and loan funds to students attending college or career school.
We ensure students and their families can benefit from these programs by
informing students and families about the availability of the federal student aid programs and the process for applying for and receiving aid from those programs;
developing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form and processing more than 17.5 million FAFSA forms each year;
accurately disbursing, reconciling, and accounting for all federal student aid funds that are delivered to students each year through approximately 5,400 colleges and career schools;
managing the outstanding federal student loan portfolio and securing repayment from federal student loan borrowers;
offering free assistance to students, parents, and borrowers throughout the entire financial aid process; and
providing oversight and monitoring of all program participants—schools, financial entities, and students—to ensure compliance with the laws, regulations, and policies governing the federal student aid programs.
The Gates Millennium Scholars (GMS) program, established in 1999, is a 1.6 billion dollar initiative funded by grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Description of Services:
The Gates Millennium Scholars (GMS) program, established in 1999, is a 1.6 billion dollar initiative funded by grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
The goal of the GMS program is to promote academic excellence and to provide an opportunity for outstanding minority students with significant financial need to reach their highest potential by:
Reducing financial barriers for African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian Pacific Islander American and Hispanic American students with high academic and leadership promise who have significant financial need.
Increasing the representation of these target groups in the disciplines of computer science, education, engineering, library science, mathematics, public health and the sciences, where these groups are severely underrepresented.
Renewable awards for Gates Millennium Scholars maintaining satisfactory academic progress.
Graduate school funding for continuing Gates Millennium Scholars in the areas of computer science, education, engineering, library science, mathematics, public health or science.
Your future is our focus at Grossmont Adult Education (GAE), where you can choose from free and low-cost classes that are designed to meet your educational, career and personal goals.
Description of Services:
Your future is our focus at Grossmont Adult Education (GAE), where you can choose from free and low-cost classes that are designed to meet your educational, career and personal goals. Whether you are looking for career training, want to learn or improve your English, are ready to get fit, want to earn your high school equivalency or diploma, take parenting classes, or unleash your creativity with arts and crafts – we have a class to empower you to build your best future. GAE serves the East County community.
Grossmont Adult Education has four centers. Each center offers a variety of services and classes but has a primary focus.
El Cajon Adult Center coordinates the English as a Second Language program.
Foothills Adult Center serves as the main Adult Education office and coordinates the Academic and non-medical Career Training programs.
Health Occupations Center coordinates the medical Career Training programs.
Steele Canyon Adult Center oversees the Re-Entry Education program for local correctional facilities.
Grossmont College is “Changing Lives Through Education” and has been a vital part of the community since classes first convened in 1961. One out of every three East County adults has taken classes at Grossmont or Cuyamaca colleges.
Description of Services:
Grossmont College is “Changing Lives Through Education” and has been a vital part of the community since classes first convened in 1961. One out of every three East County adults has taken classes at Grossmont or Cuyamaca colleges.
Grossmont College serves a diverse learning community of students, primarily from suburban locations in East San Diego County, and also from city of San Diego neighborhoods, surrounding communities, as well as locations across the state, the nation and more than 50 countries throughout the world.
The larger campus in the two-college Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District, Grossmont College currently serves almost 19,000 full- and part-time students per semester.
SDSU Guardian Scholars (GS) Program is a holistic support program committed to serving students who identify as current or former foster youth, wards of the court, under legal guardianship or unaccompanied homeless youth by supporting their transition to, through, and beyond SDSU.
Description of Services:
SDSU Guardian Scholars (GS) Program is a holistic support program committed to serving students who identify as current or former foster youth, wards of the court, under legal guardianship or unaccompanied homeless youth by supporting their transition to, through, and beyond SDSU.
Services and Benefits:
GS First Meet Up
GS Scholarships
GS Housing Award – On and Off-Campus Assistance
View our GS Housing Award Program for Prospective Landlords here.
Fall and Spring Care Packages
Fall and Spring Kick-Offs
GS University Seminar Class (Fall and Spring)
Monthly Meetings
Wellness Coaching
Thanksgiving and Graduation Celebration Dinners
Free Test Materials (scantrons, blue books)
Guardian Scholars Resource Area
Dress to Express: Senior Professional Attire Shopping Day
Promises2Kids’ Guardian Scholars encourages foster youth to pursue higher education through community college, trade school, or a university degree. This highly successful resource provides former foster youth with a partial financial scholarship along with mentoring support to assist them in adapting to and excelling in a higher education setting.
Description of Services:
Promises2Kids’ Guardian Scholars encourages foster youth to pursue higher education through community college, trade school, or a university degree. This highly successful resource provides former foster youth with a partial financial scholarship along with mentoring support to assist them in adapting to and excelling in a higher education setting. More than 300 youths have been provided scholarships. Over 90% of guardian scholars will be first-generation graduates.
By giving college preparatory support, academic scholarships, mentoring, and individual support, foster youth gain the necessary tools to support themselves and become self-sufficient adults. Promises2Kids has an over 80% success rate with our Guardian Scholars. They are staying in post-high school education and graduating — setting the foundation for a successful future. The collaborative partnership between Promises2Kids and the student’s educational institution helps students navigate their way through the education system and provides the encouragement, support, and direction that a parent would normally provide.
Promises2Kids Guardian Scholars provides the following support:
College preparation, SAT Courses, and unique college-level courses
while in high school as a Junior Guardian Scholar
HSF empowers students and parents with the knowledge and resources to successfully complete a higher education, while providing support services and scholarships to as many exceptional students, HSF Scholars and Alumni as possible.
Description of Services:
HSF empowers students and parents with the knowledge and resources to successfully complete a higher education, while providing support services and scholarships to as many exceptional students, HSF Scholars and Alumni as possible.
HSF strives to make college education a top priority for every family across the nation, mobilizing communities to proactively advance that goal—each individual, over a lifetime, in every way they can. HSF also seeks to give its Scholars all the tools they need to do well in their course work, graduate, enter, and excel in a profession, help lead our nation going forward, and mentor the generations to come. As one of the nation’s leading nonprofit organizations, HSF has awarded over $675 million in scholarships and provides a broad range of programs and support services for students, parents, HSF Scholars, and HSF Alumni. For more information about HSF, please visit HSF.net.
The Hope Scholars Program is a holistic student support program committed to supporting students who identify as current or former foster youth, under legal guardianship, unaccompanied homeless, or disconnected.
Description of Services:
The Hope Scholars Program is a holistic student support program committed to supporting students who identify as current or former foster youth, under legal guardianship, unaccompanied homeless, or disconnected. Our family-oriented program strives to support Hope Scholars by offering an array of services including priority registration, scholarships, year-round on-campus housing, personal and academic counseling, individual tutoring, employment opportunities, personal and professional workshops, referrals to on and off-campus resources, and much more!
As one of the nation’s largest need-based college scholarship programs, the Horatio Alger Scholarship Programs specifically assist high school students who have faced and overcome great obstacles in their young lives.
Description of Services:
As one of the nation’s largest need-based college scholarship programs, the Horatio Alger Scholarship Programs specifically assist high school students who have faced and overcome great obstacles in their young lives. While many programs are directed primarily to recognizing academic achievement or leadership potential, the Horatio Alger Association seeks students who have exhibited determination, integrity, and perseverance in overcoming adversity, as well as have critical financial need.
Check out all of the scholarship opportunities on our About our Scholarships page and once you have determined what program(s) you may be eligible for, go ahead and click on the apply button to start an application!
John Burton Advocates for Youth improves the quality of life for youth in California who have been in foster care or homeless by advocating for better laws, training communities to strengthen local practices and conducting research to inform policy solutions.
Description of Services:
John Burton Advocates for Youth improves the quality of life for youth in California who have been in foster care or homeless by advocating for better laws, training communities to strengthen local practices and conducting research to inform policy solutions.
JBAY focuses on youth who have been in foster care or homeless, aged 13 to 26. The needs of this population are considerable. Youth enter foster care due to abuse or neglect and, sadly, their challenges are often compounded by the system itself due to placement instability, school changes, lack of access to mental health services to address trauma, and the lack of consistent, unconditional care.
Serving youth county-wide, LEAP is a secondary bridging program which provides youth with 6 – 8 weeks of academic skill remediation, work readiness and life skill development as well as college and career exploration and preparation.
Description of Services:
Serving youth county-wide, LEAP is a secondary bridging program which provides youth with 6 – 8 weeks of academic skill remediation, work readiness and life skill development as well as college and career exploration and preparation.
Following the bridging courses, youth then receive support as they transition into their first year of post-secondary training/education.
One-on-one support
Work-based learning
College/University/CTE enrollment assistance
College tours
Career exploration workshops
Employment assistance
Eligibility:
Between the ages of 16 – 25
Any of the following:
Involved in foster or juvenile justice systems, or
Experiencing homelessness, or
Residents in transitional housing units
For more information contact Christopher Zures at 619-213-2079.
The Live Your Dream Awards provide monetary assistance to women who provide the primary source of financial support for their families. It is the cornerstone program of Soroptimist International of the Americas, LiveYourDream.org’s sponsoring organization.
Description of Services:
The Live Your Dream Awards provide monetary assistance to women who provide the primary source of financial support for their families. It is the cornerstone program of Soroptimist International of the Americas, LiveYourDream.org’s sponsoring organization.
Each year, more than $2.4 million in education grants are awarded to over 1,500 women, many of whom have overcome enormous obstacles including poverty, domestic violence, the death of a spouse and/or substance abuse.
Eligibility:
Provides the primary financial support for yourself and your dependents. Dependents can include children, spouse, partner, siblings and/or parents.
Has financial need.
Is enrolled in or has been accepted to a vocational/skills training program or an undergraduate degree program.
Is motivated to achieve your education and career goals.
Resides in one of Soroptimist International of the Americas’ member countries/territories (Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia,
Ecuador, Guam, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Northern Mariana Islands, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Taiwan, United States of America, Venezuela).
Has not previously been the recipient of a Soroptimist Women’s Opportunity or Live Your Dream Award.
Does not have a graduate degree.
Is not a Soroptimist member, an employee of Soroptimist International of the Americas or immediate family of either.
Has a Social Security number or Tax ID number. (This is required for tax purposes and is only necessary if you are a resident of the United States. You will not be asked to share this information unless you have been given an award.)
Local San Diego Scholarships (San Diego Foundation)
Details
Several organizations in San Diego County provide scholarship opportunities for students. Click the link below for a list of scholarships offered. Contact those organizations directly for more information.
Description of Services:
Several organizations in San Diego County provide scholarship opportunities for students. Click the link below for a list of scholarships offered. Contact those organizations directly for more information.
Today, MAAC provides life-changing services to over 35,000 individuals annually throughout San Diego County. Collaboration with community partners ensures MAAC remains on the forefront of the community’s ever-changing needs, while strong relationships with funders foster strategic planning around emerging trends.
Description of Services:
Today, MAAC provides life-changing services to over 35,000 individuals annually throughout San Diego County. Collaboration with community partners ensures MAAC remains on the forefront of the community’s ever-changing needs, while strong relationships with funders foster strategic planning around emerging trends. MAAC’s Pathways of Service — Advocacy & Leadership Development, Economic Development, Education, Health & Well-being, and Housing — support our mission of maximizing self-sufficiency with families and individuals through high-quality programs and advocacy in our communities.
Since 1998, PFLAG San Diego County has overseen the awarding of over 175 scholarships in the amount of $370,000 to LGBTQ+ students. The portfolio of scholarship awards over-seen by the PFLAG Scholarship Committee continues to increase, including
Description of Services:
Since 1998, PFLAG San Diego County has overseen the awarding of over 175 scholarships in the amount of $370,000 to LGBTQ+ students. The portfolio of scholarship awards over-seen by the PFLAG Scholarship Committee continues to increase, including scholarships funded through former and current PFLAG members: the Rob Benzon/Dan Ferbal Foundation, Raytheon, Qualcomm, and the Stephen G. Bowersox Memorial Scholarship, among others. The scholarships are awarded to LGBTQ+ high school seniors continuing on to higher education or full-time undergraduate and graduate students through a competitive application and essay process. The scholarship committee selects recipients based on their commitment to their chosen field, financial need, and academic achievement. It is worth noting that one of the earliest recipients of a PFLAG SDC scholarship was Todd Gloria, Mayor of San Diego, who exemplifies the public service we support. “Launching Leaders” serves as both a platform to honor our recipients and a primary fundraiser for future scholarships.
Our Mission: To create a caring, just, and affirming world for LGBTQ+ people and those who love them.
PFLAG San Diego County and its collaborators are pleased to offer these scholarships. Minimum scholarship amounts are $2,000, and more than one scholarship may be awarded in a given category. Applicants are encouraged to address the additional award factors considered for these named scholarships when submitting their essays.
Pro Kids, First Tee – San Diego believes in developing opportunities that are just as fun as they are meaningful, where kids feel excited to grow, safe to fail, and better equipped for whatever comes their way next.
Description of Services:
Pro Kids, First Tee – San Diego believes in developing opportunities that are just as fun as they are meaningful, where kids feel excited to grow, safe to fail, and better equipped for whatever comes their way next. Through our Golf & Life Skills and Academy programs our members experience unique opportunities, consistent support and character building to give them the tools for a successful future.
The mission of Pro Kids, First Tee – San Diego is to challenge underserved youth to excel in life by promoting character development, life skills, and values through education and the game of golf. Our team of dedicated staff is devoted to our youth participants and work to provide meaningful experiences, lessons, and connections both on and off the course.
Born as a 12-week course at UC Berkeley, Project Reboot is a research-backed program that helps students build an informed and intentional relationship with technologyMass adoption of smartphones and social media has happened too quickly for education and regulation to keep up.
Description of Services:
Born as a 12-week course at UC Berkeley, Project Reboot is a research-backed program that helps students build an informed and intentional relationship with technology. Mass adoption of smartphones and social media has happened too quickly for education and regulation to keep up. As a result, teens have been thrown into the deep end and asked to navigate the online world with little to no guidance.
Unsurprisingly, youth (and adults) are struggling to maintain balance. Project Reboot seeks to help them reset their tech habits, reclaim their time, and regain their focus.
Founded in 1994, QuestBridge is a national nonprofit based in Palo Alto, California that connects the nation’s most exceptional, low-income youth with leading colleges and opportunities.
Description of Services:
Founded in 1994, QuestBridge is a national nonprofit based in Palo Alto, California that connects the nation’s most exceptional, low-income youth with leading colleges and opportunities. By working with these students — beginning in high school through college to their first job —QuestBridge aims to increase the percentage of talented low-income students attending the nation’s best colleges and to support them to achieve success in their careers and communities.
Students who’ve experienced life in a foster home or group home often need extra support and resources to ensure they succeed in college. Here you’ll learn about the many ways your CSU campus can help you thrive from the day you start your academic career until you earn your degree.
Description of Services:
Students who’ve experienced life in a foster home or group home often need extra support and resources to ensure they succeed in college. Here you’ll learn about the many ways your CSU campus can help you thrive from the day you start your academic career until you earn your degree.
Rising Scholars (Transitions) Program – Palomar College
Details
The program encompasses two components: classes that take place at the Vista Detention Facility and an on-campus program. At the Vista Detention Facility, Palomar professors teach credit courses to currently incarcerated students.
Description of Services:
The program encompasses two components: classes that take place at the Vista Detention Facility and an on-campus program. At the Vista Detention Facility, Palomar professors teach credit courses to currently incarcerated students. On campus at Palomar College, formerly incarcerated students can join the program anytime. We also offer a summer program. Rising Scholars students can also join the Transitions Collective student group for extracurricular activities.
Rising Scholars can take advantage of many benefits including but not limited to:
Tutoring and Peer Advising
Check-ins and community support throughout the week
Guest speakers, including formerly incarcerated people who are leaders in their fields
Assistance with basic needs such as transportation, books, and other financial resources
Counseling and student support services (academic and personal counseling, printing services, career counseling, and so on)
To join or get more information about the Rising Scholars Program, contact Dr. Nora Kenney at nkenney@palomar.edu or by phone at (760) 744-1150 x 3287. If you would like to begin the process of enrolling in Palomar College as a Rising Scholars (Transitions) Program student, the process is outlined here, but Dr. Kenney can help you with this as well.
Founded in 1973, Stein Education Center is one of the first private special education school settings in San Diego for students with Autism. Today, our special education campus is State certified to provide individualized special education services to children, teens, and young adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities or severe emotional disorders.
Description of Services:
Founded in 1973, Stein Education Center is one of the first private special education school settings in San Diego for students with Autism. Today, our special education campus is State certified to provide individualized special education services to children, teens, and young adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities or severe emotional disorders.
Services include:
Methods including Applied Behavioral Analysis, positive behavior intervention
Functional academics
Social skills development
Speech and language therapy
Occupational therapy
Counseling
Pre-vocational and vocational training
Community integration
Multi-sensory experience
Enrichment activities, including equestrian, art, music, technology access & recreation.
San Diego College of Continuing Education commits to student success and community enrichment by providing tuition-free, accessible, equitable, and innovative quality education and support services to diverse learners in pursuit of lifelong learning, training, career advancement, and pathways to credit college.
Description of Services:
San Diego College of Continuing Education commits to student success and community enrichment by providing tuition-free, accessible, equitable, and innovative quality education and support services to diverse learners in pursuit of lifelong learning, training, career advancement, and pathways to credit college.
As one of the largest of California’s 73 community college districts, the San Diego Community College District serves approximately 100,000 students annually at its three, credit colleges, San Diego City College, Mesa College, Miramar College, and seven campuses of San Diego College of Continuing Education.
Description of Services:
As one of the largest of California’s 73 community college districts, the San Diego Community College District serves approximately 100,000 students annually at its three, credit colleges, San Diego City College, Mesa College, Miramar College, and seven campuses of San Diego College of Continuing Education.
The colleges offer associate degrees, and Continuing Education and the colleges offer career technical certificates that prepare students for transfer to universities and/or career pathways with higher paying jobs. In addition, Mesa College now offers a bachelor’s degree in Health Information Management as part of California’s Baccalaureate Pilot Program.
Laws Relating to the Education of Students in Foster Care
Description of Services:
Laws Relating to the Education of Students in Foster Care: CA FosterCare EdLaw FactSheets, 2014 (PDF)
(http://www.sdcoe.net/student-services/student-support/fyhes/Documents/Foster/CAFosterCareFactSheets2014.pdf)
San Diego Foundation Common Application Scholarship
Details
In just one application, our Common Scholarship Application provides students access to more than 100 scholarship opportunities with awards ranging from $1,000 to more than $5,000. Some scholarships can be renewed for multiple years to help offset the financial burden for a student’s entire undergraduate career.
Description of Services:
In just one application, our Common Scholarship Application provides students access to more than 100 scholarship opportunities with awards ranging from $1,000 to more than $5,000. Some scholarships can be renewed for multiple years to help offset the financial burden for a student’s entire undergraduate career.
Scholarships are available for:
Graduating high school seniors
Current college students (undergraduate or graduate)
Adult re-entry students
Students with financial needs (including middle-income families)
Students attending four-year universities, community colleges, or career/technical schools
We equip job seekers to increase their economic mobility, help businesses grow, rebuild, and thrive equitably, and prepare children and young adults for the world of work. We believe in the power and dignity of work, fight for equity and inclusion and dedicate ourselves to building programs that meet people where they are.
Description of Services:
We equip job seekers to increase their economic mobility, help businesses grow, rebuild, and thrive equitably, and prepare children and young adults for the world of work. We believe in the power and dignity of work, fight for equity and inclusion and dedicate ourselves to building programs that meet people where they are.
Workforce development is much more than finding the next job. It is helping people connect what they know, love, and need with careers that align with each person’s unique talents. Career preparation begins in the classroom and continues throughout life. Life-long learning is essential to keep pace with an ever-changing world.
The Workforce Partnership offers services, custom programs, and targeted initiatives that are redefining what workforce development can—and must—be. Everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed and we are committed to making that an aspiration and reality.
The Starbucks College Achievement Plan (SCAP) is a first of its kind partnership with Starbucks and Arizona State University (ASU) that creates an opportunity for all eligible U.S. Starbucks partners (employees) to earn their first-time bachelor’s degree through ASU’s top-ranked online degree program.
Description of Services:
The Starbucks College Achievement Plan (SCAP) is a first of its kind partnership with Starbucks and Arizona State University (ASU) that creates an opportunity for all eligible U.S. Starbucks partners (employees) to earn their first-time bachelor’s degree through ASU’s top-ranked online degree program.
At the Chadwick Center for Children & Families, we believe that every child and family has the right to be safe and supported after experiencing a scary or traumatic event in order to move towards healing.
Description of Services:
At the Chadwick Center for Children & Families, we believe that every child and family has the right to be safe and supported after experiencing a scary or traumatic event in order to move towards healing.
The Chadwick Center is an accredited children’s advocacy center (CAC). It is one of the largest hospital-based CACs and trauma treatment centers in the nation. Our CAC provides family-focused and trauma-informed services to children and adolescents who may have experienced or witnessed maltreatment, abuse or violence
The Guardian Teacher Scholarship is an opportunity to encourage and support former foster care youth to pursue careers in teaching in California. Scholarships help the UC Davis School of Education prepare qualified students to be knowledgeable, thoughtful teacher leaders of tomorrow.
Description of Services:
The Guardian Teacher Scholarship is an opportunity to encourage and support former foster care youth to pursue careers in teaching in California. Scholarships help the UC Davis School of Education prepare qualified students to be knowledgeable, thoughtful teacher leaders of tomorrow. Funds specifically support student tuition and fees associated with studying and preparing to be teachers through the School’s Teaching Credential/Master of Arts Program.
The Guardian Teacher Scholarship is a partnership of the UC Davis School of Education and the Guardian Scholars Program at UC Davis, with seed funding from the Stuart Foundation. The Guardian Scholars Program serves the needs of former foster youth by providing support and services during their undergraduate careers. Together, we are working to encourage students to continue their post-undergraduate education and pursue teaching careers.
The MANA de San Diego Scholarship Program enables exceptional Latinas to continue the journey toward success, leadership, and empowerment by providing financial assistance when enrolled in an institution of higher learning.
Description of Services:
The MANA de San Diego Scholarship Program enables exceptional Latinas to continue the journey toward success, leadership, and empowerment by providing financial assistance when enrolled in an institution of higher learning.
Annually, MANA awards $30,000 to $40,000 in financial support to a wide range of worthy students. From community college students on the road to a Bachelor’s Degree to doctoral candidates on the verge of a Ph.D. MANA has awarded $596,500 in scholarships to date.
MANA Scholarship recipients are selected based on a number of academic and non-academic factors. These factors include leadership, community engagement, educational and professional goals, financial need, and special circumstances. Scholarships are awarded and recipients and their families are celebrated at an annual Scholarship Reception.
The SchoolHouse Connection Youth Leadership and Scholarship Program
Details
We have some exciting news! To support students earlier in their educational journey, we’re thrilled to announce that students starting college (four year, community college, or trade school) for the first time in the 2025-2026 academic year (not including dual-enrollment courses) can apply for our scholarship starting now through June 1st, 2024.
Description of Services:
The 2024 Application Is Now Open!
We have some exciting news! To support students earlier in their educational journey, we’re thrilled to announce that students starting college (four year, community college, or trade school) for the first time in the 2025-2026 academic year (not including dual-enrollment courses) can apply for our scholarship starting now through June 1st, 2024. This applies to high school juniors or high school seniors planning to take a gap year.
Students beginning college in 2024 would have applied for our program in 2023 and are not eligible for the current application cycle.
Eligibility:
You are currently residing in the United States. Note: undocumented applicants are eligible.
You were born on or after June 1, 2004
You will be starting college (four year, community college, or trade school) for the first time in the 2025-2026 academic year (not including dual-enrollment courses). This applies to high school juniors or high school seniors planning to take a gap year.
You experienced homelessness in the last six years
UNCF has helped more than 500,000 students earn their college degrees since its founding. UNCF is the nation’s largest private scholarship provider to minority group members.
Description of Services:
UNCF has helped more than 500,000 students earn their college degrees since its founding.
UNCF is the nation’s largest private scholarship provider to minority group members. Each year, we award more than $100 million in scholarships to students attending more than 1,100 schools across the country, including our prestigious network of 37 HBCUs.
In today’s world, with so many changes taking place in the economy and new technology being introduced continuously, it’s hard to keep up with the job industry. In fact, there are new opportunities becoming available all the time, and some of the jobs that were scarce in the past, are now in high demand.
Description of Services:
In today’s world, with so many changes taking place in the economy and new technology being introduced continuously, it’s hard to keep up with the job industry. In fact, there are new opportunities becoming available all the time, and some of the jobs that were scarce in the past, are now in high demand. Moreover, in order to get a decent-paying job today, you’ll almost certainly need a college degree. It’s not like it was years ago when you can land a job managing a store with a high school diploma. Now, there is too much involved with running a business or fulfilling job duties in other occupations, to rely on basic skills and knowledge. You will need to spend a significant amount of time learning your craft in order to succeed and going to college to earn an online degree is the best way to do that.
Vista Adult School has provided leading educational services in Vista, CA since 1977. We are committed to providing an exemplary education designed to engage, inspire and empower all students to achieve their goals.
Description of Services:
Vista Adult School has provided leading educational services in Vista, CA since 1977. We are committed to providing an exemplary education designed to engage, inspire and empower all students to achieve their goals.
Vista Adult School’s WASC accredited programs include Career Technical Education, Adult Basic Education, Adult Secondary Education and English as a Second Language. In addition we offer Community Education courses. All teachers are certified in their teaching area by the California Commission for Teacher Credentialing. We proudly serve approximately 3,000 adults each year. We offer convenient schedules to fit the needs and lifestyles of adult learners, and we welcome students 18 years of age and older from throughout Southern California.