Today in California when youth in foster care graduate from high school or turn eighteen they exit the child welfare system. At that time they lose their housing, financial support and often the guidance of a caring adult. In Sacramento, approximately 250 youth each year experience this situation. Although many are interested in pursuing college degrees, the daily struggles to exist keep them from pursuing their higher education goals and achieving their potential.

We all know that education is one key to a successful future. We encourage our own children to dream big, study hard and pursue higher education goals. For children with family support and encouragement, that dream can be realized.

For foster children, removed from their families because of abuse and/or neglect, there is no family to provide the necessary encouragement to reach for the stars. Higher education opportunities are rarely nurtured and often denied to all but the most fortunate foster youth.

The Foster Youth Education Fund is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness, generating funds and providing support to assist emancipated foster youth in reaching their higher education goals.

With community and corporate support, the Foster Youth Education Fund has continued to grow. When we began in 2002, we distributed $5,000 in education grants to deserving foster youth. In 2007, we distributed $42,000 in education grants.

Guardian Scholars Program
The Foster Youth Education Fund also works with the Guardian Scholars Program at California State University, Sacramento. With community and institutional support, this proven program maximizes state and federal funds, providing housing, tuition and support services for the youth, with amazing results. A portion of our proceeds each year goes to this program.