College Students Speakers Wanted! 🎓 Are you an undergraduate studying outside Bakersfield or attending a Trade school? Share your inspiring story with Y2LEF's College Going Academy Students! Scan the QR code to sign up and choose a date that works for you!

The Time Is Now – Giving Tuesday Needs You! This Giving Tuesday, let's come together to make a lasting impact! Youth 2 Leaders needs your help to fund our scholarships and provide vital support to students in need. Your generous donations can change lives by helping us provide the basic necessities every student deserves. Our scholarships ensure that no student is left behind due to financial barriers. With your support, we can equip young leaders with the tools they need to succeed. Be the change we want to see in our community. Donate today and help a student reach their full potential! You can access our website by scanning the QR code or clicking the link in our bio! #givingtuesday #GivingTuesdaycampaign #GivingTuesday #GivingTuesdayCA #givingtuesdayca #donatenow #makeadifferencetoday #HigherEducation #highereducation #scholarships

We are deeply grateful for the partnership between Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation and the KCSOS K-16 Regional Collaborative that made today’s press conference such a success! A special thanks to our inspiring speakers for their valuable insights on financial aid, their expertise, and their steadfast support. Together, we’re building bridges to brighter futures through collaboration, education, and community-driven initiatives.

Attend an upcoming Cash 4 College Workshop for assistance with financial aid applications! 📅 Check the dates and high school locations to find a workshop near you. Please note: All attendees must either be current students of the high school hosting the workshop or reside within the district. #CollegeReady #Cash4College #Youth2Leaders

🤝🌟 This Giving Tuesday, let’s make dreams come true! 🌟🤝 On December 3rd, 2024, join us in empowering students to achieve their educational goals. Your generous donation will provide scholarships and resources that open doors to brighter futures. Scan the QR code to visit our website and give the gift of education today! #GivingTuesday #SupportEducation #Youth2Leaders #EmpowerStudents #MakeADifference"

🍂 Happy Thanksgiving from Y2LEF! 🍂 This Thanksgiving, we want to express our deepest gratitude to our incredible community. Your unwavering support, kindness, and generosity have made a lasting impact on the lives of the students and families we serve. We are truly thankful for the partnerships, friendships, and collective dedication that fuel our mission to empower youth through education. Together, we are creating brighter futures and stronger communities. From our Y2LEF family to yours, we wish you a holiday filled with love, joy, and countless reasons to be thankful. 🦃💛

🌟 The time is NOW! 🌟 This Cash 4 College season, we need YOUR help! Volunteer at our Cash 4 College workshops and assist students with their FAFSA/CADAA applications to help them secure the financial aid they need for college. 💸As a special thank you, if you attend 3 workshops this season, you'll receive a $25 gift card! 🎉Sign up today by clicking the link in our bio or scanning the QR code. Let’s make this season a success and help students achieve their college dreams! 🎓 #Cash4College #Volunteer #FinancialAid #MakeADifference

We’re grateful for our incredible community and the opportunity to support student success. Please note that our offices will be closed Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, November 27th-29th. Wishing you a joyful and peaceful holiday filled with love and gratitude! #HappyThanksgiving #GratitudeSeason #Thankful #Youth2Leaders

Another week, another chapter in Joel’s inspiring journey! His experience with the Migrant Program and Y2LEF has been nothing short of remarkable. Through the Pre College/Yo Puedo program, Joel built crucial social and leadership skills that empowered him to thrive in college and grow both personally and professionally. Let’s celebrate Joel’s resilience and success! 🌟 Feeling inspired? Drop a 🚀 if Joel’s story speaks to you, or share how a similar journey has impacted your life!

💭 Dream Big with CADAA! 💙 The California Dream Act Application (CADAA) is here to support undocumented students in pursuing their college dreams. Apply for CADAA starting December 1st and unlock opportunities for your future! 🎓✨ #CADAA #DreamBig #FinancialAid #UndocumentedStudents #EducationForAll #Youth2Leaders

Give the Gift of Education! This Giving Tuesday, help us provide scholarships that empower students to reach their academic goals. Your donation supports tuition, books, and essential resources—helping students thrive and succeed. Visit www.y2lef.org or scan the QR code to contribute to their future!

🚨 FAFSA 2025-26 Update! 🚨 The U.S. Department of Education has released the 2025–26 FAFSA form ahead of schedule! 🎉 The form is now available online and in paper format for students and families to complete. Apply now at www.fafsa.ed.gov and take the first step toward funding your education! 🎓 #FAFSA #FinancialAid #HigherEducation #CollegeReady #FAFSAUpdate

It's another week, and our story with Joel Arce continues! Joel's journey hasn't always been the smoothest ride, but through perseverance and the support of the Migrant Program and Y2LEF, he was equipped with the tools and resources that were key to his success. From overcoming early challenges to embracing every opportunity, Joel’s dedication to these programs has shaped him into the strong, driven individual he is today. His story is a true testament to the power of support, resilience, and hard work. Stay tuned as we continue to share more of Joel’s inspiring journey with us in the coming weeks—this is just the beginning! #MigrantProgram #Y2LEF #SuccessStory #Inspiration #Resilience

Over the past 5 weeks, the Leaders of Tomorrow program, held in Buttonwillow by Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation and California Resource Corporation, has provided a series of impactful workshops designed to empower students and shape their futures. With the support of our incredible guest speakers, students gained valuable insights into the importance of their future and the boundless opportunities ahead of them. A heartfelt thank you to CRC and all the speakers who contributed their time and expertise – your dedication and leadership helped make this a truly successful journey!

🌟 Meet Jacob Ruiz, an incredible AmeriCorps member making a real difference at East High! 🌟 Jacob is a dedicated CSUB student majoring in Criminal Justice, with dreams of becoming a detective. When he’s not mentoring and inspiring the next generation of students, you can find him enjoying a peaceful day out fishing. Thank you, Jacob, for all you do! Your hard work and passion for helping others makes you a true role model. We’re lucky to have you as part of our team, guiding students through their high school and early college journeys. Keep shining!

This weekend, our annual Senior Retreat took place at Rancho El Chorro, generously sponsored by Kern Family Health Care. The camp brought together 72 high school seniors from Migrant Education Regions 5, 8, and 14. Students engaged in sessions covering essential topics such as financial aid, scholarships, and college applications for CSU, CCC, and UC systems, along with information about the CAMP program at CSUB. Highlights included presentations on BC's EOP&S, Transfer Pathways, and Industrial Automation, as well as an inspiring keynote speech by Frank Ramirez. The retreat also featured leadership activities aimed at enhancing teamwork and collaboration skills among participants.

Yesterday, parents explored Parental Controls and Online Safety, gaining valuable tools to navigate the digital world with confidence. Each week, we’re tackling new tech topics to help parents feel more empowered and connected. It’s all about making technology simpler and safer for families! 📱💻 Stay tuned for more! #ParentAcademy #TechSavvyParents #DigitalSafety #EmpoweringParents

Yesterday marked the end of the second week of the STEAM Explorers Academy at Taft Union High School. Students dedicated their time to the construction and assembly of their VEX robots, enhancing their engineering and problem-solving skills. Next week, the program will transition to programming and coding their robots, allowing students to bring their creations to life. #STEAMAcademy #Robotics #Coding

🚨 Maintenance Alert 🚨 StudentAid.gov will be undergoing scheduled maintenance this weekend, which may result in limited access to some services. For more details and updates, please visit StudentAid.gov.

Today, we concluded our final Leaders of Tomorrow workshop. We want to extend our gratitude to our closing speaker, Cesar Delgado from Kern Family Health Care, for his presentation on Business Intelligence. Y2LEF would also like to thank the California Resource Corporation for sponsoring this 5-week program. A big shoutout as well to all the previous speakers who generously dedicated their time to inspire and support our students’ future goals!

We would like to congratulate Sal Avalos, the Migrant Education Coordinator at KCSOS, for receiving the Educator Equity Champion Award. This well-deserved recognition honors Sal's unwavering commitment and outstanding contributions to advancing educational opportunities for migrant students in our community. His dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment ensures that every student, regardless of their background, has the resources and support they need to succeed. Thank you, Sal, for your exceptional service and inspiring leadership—your impact will be felt for years to come.

Today is World Kindness Day! Small acts of kindness can change lives and transform communities. Youth 2 Leaders values the time spent with our community and the students we serve. We are deeply grateful for this opportunity and excited for the future programs and events that will allow us to continue supporting the community. Be kind today!' #WorldKindness #WorldKindnessDay

This Giving Tuesday, Youth 2 Leaders is focused on raising scholarship funds to help students achieve their educational goals. Your support—whether through a donation, volunteering at our financial aid workshops, or sharing our cause—directly contributes to providing scholarships that will open doors for students in need. Every dollar you give brings us closer to ensuring that more young people have the financial resources they need to succeed. Let’s make this Giving Tuesday count by investing in brighter futures through scholarships! #GivingTuesday #December3 #Donate #Volunteer #Share

Introducing Joel Arce! This month, we’re thrilled to spotlight Joel, who has been involved with the Migrant Program and Youth 2 Leaders since his school days. Throughout the month, we’ll share his incredible journey, highlighting how his experiences have inspired him to pursue a career in Aerospace Engineering. Get ready to be inspired by his story! 🚀 #Inspiration #MigrantPrograms #Youth2Leaders #AerospaceEngineering

Honoring the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of our veterans today and every day. Thank you for your service and for protecting the freedoms we hold dear. 🇺🇸#VeteransDay

Yesterday, Y2LEF kicked off their very first Parent Academy at Foothill High School, empowering parents to take the first steps into the digital world! The introductory course focused on building a solid foundation of common tech vocabulary, helping parents understand key concepts and feel more confident using computers in today’s fast-evolving tech. Parents left with new insights and tools to stay up to date with the latest advancements in technology. This is just the beginning—stay tuned as we continue to support their journey with more advanced lessons next week!📲⌨️🧑‍💻

Buttonwillow students were inspired today by KCSOS’s Sal Avalos, who reminded us that the actions we take today lay the foundation for the future we dream of. With his guidance, our students learned that every choice they make now creates the opportunities for a brighter tomorrow! Shoutout to the California Resource Corporation for sponsoring these workshops!

Meet Americorps member Aleyda Valencia, who we are incredibly grateful to have here at Y2L! 🌟 Aleyda is a dedicated student at Bakersfield College, with her school site at Golden Valley, where she not only excels academically but also serves as an inspiring mentor to high school students. Majoring in Criminal Justice, she has big dreams of becoming an FBI Profiler. When she’s not hitting the books, Aleyda enjoys crocheting and getting lost in a good book. We thank you, Aleyda, for all the support and mentorship you provide to the students at Golden Valley.

🌟 Exciting Job Opportunity! 🌟 Want to inspire the next generation of college-bound students? 🎓 Join us as a Student Speaker at College Going Away Academy! Share your unique story, motivate others, and help them discover the path to success—all while earning! 💸 Ready to make an impact? Scan the QR code and apply now to become a paid panelist! 📲 #InspireSuccess #CollegeBound #StudentSpeaker #Motivation #PaidOpportunity"

🌟 It’s Memory Lane Monday! Meet Jon Waldrep, a dedicated Program Training and Development Analyst! We’re constantly inspired by the impactful work Jon does, and we hope his insights encourage you to start thinking about applying for FAFSA/CADAA. Our mission is to ensure every student has the tools for future success, and with the incredible support surrounding Y2LEF, we’re confident we can achieve this together! 🎓✨ #Inspiration #FAFSA #Y2LEF #StudentSuccess

"Life is a song—sing it. Life is a game—play it. Life is a challenge—meet it. Life is a dream—realize it. Life is a sacrifice—offer it. Life is love—enjoy it." — Unknown This quote was chosen by Paola Caballero, our Program Coordinator at Y2L. She encourages us to take initiative and embrace who we are. Celebrate your achievements and take advantage of the beautiful things the world has to offer. If we reach for the moon, we will land among the stars! Here are some beautiful words to start off the month of giving and gratitude. 🌙💫

👻 Don't let this skeleton scare you! It's time to get ready for your FAFSA/CADAA applications opening December 1st, 2024! 🎃 Remember, our Cash 4 College team is here to help you every step of the way. Reach out to us at cash4college@y2lef.org or call 661-374-8817 for assistance. Let’s tackle this together! 💰✨ #CollegeBound #FAFSA #CADAA

Throwing it all the way back to camp! 📚✨ Here are some cherished memories from our past camps. As we gear up for our senior retreat just around the corner, we can't wait for another amazing experience filled with learning, interaction, and growth for our students. Let the countdown begin! 🎉 #TBT #CampMemories

The Y2L Financial Aid team—Tania, Erick, and Maria Monse—had an amazing time visiting schools across Inyo and Mono counties this past week! 🎉 They connected with incredible staff members from both counties and had the opportunity to meet some awesome students along the way. This inspiring experience has them more excited and fully energized to kick off an unforgettable Cash for College season. Here’s to making this year the best one yet!

As their last week at Y2L approaches, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to Sol Castellon and Orlando Martinez for their incredible dedication this October! Over the past month, these two have volunteered a total of 20 hours with our Financial Aid Department as part of their class requirements, and their impact has been nothing short of amazing. Thank you for your time, energy, and passion. We can’t wait to see all the great things you’ll accomplish in the future! 🌟🙌💙

Meet Austin Fitch, a dedicated AmeriCorps member attending Bakersfield College, majoring in Mathematics. This year, he will be empowering students at Vista West High School, sharing his passion for learning and growth. With a deep love for travel and big dreams of becoming a remote analyst, he is committed to making an impact wherever life takes him. Until then, he's excited to shape the next generation as a high school teacher. The future is bright for this ambitious and adventurous leader!💡

Today’s workshop was a rock-solid success! A fantastic group of geologists from California Resource Corporation joined us to inspire students with hands-on activities and insights into the world of geology. It was an incredible opportunity for students to engage, ask questions, and discover the vital role geologists play in understanding our planet. Here’s to a day filled with learning and exploration!🏔️🔎🪨

We're excited to welcome Yessica, a Computer Science major with a concentration in Computer Information Systems and a minor in Psychology at CSUB! 🎓 As a new CSUB College Corps Fellow, she will assist Youth2Leaders by guiding students and families through financial aid and college applications. Joining our dynamic team of fellows, Yessica is ready to make a meaningful impact on students' educational journeys. Let's give her a warm welcome! 💙

🎓 On to the Next Chapter! 🎓 A huge congratulations to Erick Plata Torres, Tizoc Valdez Lopez, and Maria Cazares as you embark on your Master’s programs! 🌟 Your unwavering dedication and passion are truly inspiring. Here’s to new challenges, deeper knowledge, and even greater achievements in this exciting next chapter. You are the future leaders we’ve all been waiting for!

🌟 Fun Fact Alert! 🌟 Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation has proudly launched 16 programs, with 5 more on the horizon! 🚀 We're excited to keep growing and can’t wait to see what the future holds! Each of our programs has its own unique story and purpose, woven into the community to uplift one another. Our mission is shining brighter and growing stronger!

🌟 Exciting news! The CSUB College Corps Fellows have officially begun their service hours with us at Youth2Leaders! 🎉 We’re thrilled to welcome these dedicated individuals as they embark on this journey to support students and their families. Meet Jimena Sifuentes, a Computer Science student at California State University, Bakersfield concentrating in Information Systems and minoring in Spanish. As a fellow, she’ll be assisting with financial aid applications, scholarships, and serving as a mentor to guide students on their college journey. Stay tuned to see the rest of our amazing fellows featured on this feed! 🚀💼

Meet Joanne Barrick, sharing her expert financial aid tips at our Annual Statewide financial aid workshop!🎓 Joanne’s insights are a game changer for students aiming to make the most of their education opportunities. Thank you for empowering our community with valuable knowledge! ⭐️

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to California Resource Corporation for their generous donation to Youth to Leaders Education Foundation! Your support fuels our mission to empower young minds and cultivate future leaders in our community. We are incredibly excited about the AMAZING workshops we’ve curated over the next few weeks, designed to inspire, educate, and equip students with the skills they need to thrive. Together, we are not just shaping individual futures, but also building a brighter community for all. Thank you for being a vital part of this journey!

Why wait? Here are 4 fun reasons to apply for financial aid NOW! 🎉⁣⁣ Apply early to gain more chances for scholarships and free money. When you apply early you have ore time to relax and enjoy your senior year. So, what are you waiting for? 🎯 Apply for financial aid and secure your future! 🚀 If you have any questions please contact our team cash4college@y2lef.org and check out our website youth2leaders.org/cash-for-college

Big news! 🎉 Sharon has officially transitioned into her new role as Human Resources Coordinator! After her time as Executive Assistant, we’re beyond excited to celebrate this new chapter. 💼✨ Her hard work and dedication have truly paid off! 🙌 #leader #Y2L

🌟 Exciting news! The 2024-25 Arthur S. Marmaduke High School Counselor Award is now open for nominations! 🎉 This prestigious award honors an individual who exemplifies exceptional skills in guiding students towards their dreams of postsecondary education and has made significant contributions to the school counseling profession in California. Do you know a California high school counselor who: ✅ Inspires students to achieve their educational goals? ✅ Goes above and beyond to support their colleagues? ✅ Advocates for equitable access to education? Nominate them today and help us recognize their incredible impact! 💪✨ #MarmadukeAward #SchoolCounselors #EducationExcellence #NominateNow

Thank you to @unidadpopularbenitojuarez for an enriching day this past Sunday filled with vibrant food, music, and cultural celebration. It was an honor for Y2LEF to partner with Unidad Popular Benito Juarez in such a meaningful event. We look forward to the next Guelaguetza and continuing our partnership! #CommunityEngagement #guelaguetza2024

Today we celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day—a day to honor the rich cultures, history, and contributions of Native peoples. The day fosters reflection on historical truths, recognizing the significance of Indigenous knowledge and perspectives in shaping a more equitable future. Let’s take this moment to reflect on the resilience, wisdom, and strength of Indigenous communities and continue advocating for justice and equity. 🌿

Mentor Spotlight of the Month!💡Meet Noah Adame, one of our dedicated AmeriCorps members! Noah is currently studying business at Bakersfield College, with big aspirations of becoming a real estate investor. When he’s not focused on his studies, you can catch him enjoying UFC fights. We’re proud to have Noah on the Y2L team and look forward to supporting him as he pursues his career goals and educational journey!

Thrilled to kick off the first Leaders of Tomorrow workshop in Buttonwillow! Thank you to our partner California Resource Corporation for making it possible, and a special shoutout to @eric.gabriel.arias for sharing his insights. Together, we’re inspiring the next generation of leaders and instilling the power of GRIT! 💪✨ #Y2LEF #FutureLeaders

Collaborating for a brighter future! 🌟 At the 2024 NCAN Annual Conference in Anaheim, CA, Amerika Nino-Rodriguez, Program Director of Southern San Joaquin Valley Cal-SOAP Consortium, and Erick Plata Torres from Y2LEF came together to collaborate and prepare for the upcoming C4C season. With a shared commitment to student success, Y2LEF and BC Cal-SOAP are joining forces to make a lasting impact. #NCAN2024

Exciting news! 🎉 We are thrilled to welcome Eric Arias as our newest board member at Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation! With his passion and expertise, we have no doubt he’ll make a remarkable impact on our mission. As we strive to empower youth and expand our initiatives, Eric’s insights will be invaluable to our team. Join us in celebrating this new chapter as we continue to grow together and inspire the next generation of leaders! 🚀 #YouthLeadership #WelcomeEric

🎃 Get Ready for a Spooktacular Halloween! 🎃 The spooky season is upon us, and we're thrilled to announce our exciting lineup of outreach events! 🍂👻 Whether you’re looking for family fun, community connection, or just a bit of fright, we've got you covered! Engaging with families, supporting local causes, or fostering new partnerships, we believe in the power of coming together for a greater impact. Hope to see you this spooky season, witching you a Happy Halloween!

What an unforgettable weekend it has been! We are immensely grateful for the remarkable group of students who courageously shared their educational journeys with us at College Going Academy! Their inspiring stories served as powerful reminders of resilience and determination. Through their experiences, they provided invaluable insights and practical tips that motivated others to succeed and persevere, even in the face of obstacles.🎓

🌟 What an incredible night at Cultura Fest! 🎉 Huge thanks to @raicesofkern for hosting and supporting Y2LEF in our mission to empower youth through education. 🙌 A big shoutout to all the fantastic vendors and community members who made this event unforgettable. From delicious food to valuable resources, it was a celebration of culture and community! Cheers to Cultura Fest! 🌮❤️ #CulturaFest #YouthEmpowerment #CommunitySupport

Exciting news! Y2LEF is expanding its Cash for College (C4C) Program to Inyo and Mono counties, where we'll support local partners, counselors, parents, and students with workshops to help high school graduates and continuing college students apply for their 2025-2026 FAFSA or CADAA applications. For those in Kern County, reach out to RCO Erick Plata Torres at eplata@y2lef.org for assistance with financial aid applications or workshop organization. In Inyo and Mono counties, contact RCO Tania Salas at tsalas@y2lef.org for similar support. For general financial aid questions or to schedule a 1:1 appointment, email cash4college@y2lef.org. We’re here to help YOU!

🌟 Friendly reminder! 🌟 Join us this Saturday, October 5th, at Beach Park 3400 21st St., Bakersfield, CA 93301 for Cultura Fest! 🎉 Don’t miss out on a day filled with community, delicious food, live music, and so much more! Bring your friends and family to celebrate together, all while supporting the Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation. Let’s make memories for a great cause! #culturafest

🌟 A heartfelt thank you to our amazing School Districts and Community Partners! 🙌 Your unwavering support has been instrumental in making our Cash 4 College team what it is today. Together, we’re empowering students to pursue their futures and furthering our mission at Y2LEF. Here’s to continuing this important work together! 🎓✨

“Don't wait until you're confident to show up. Show up until you're confident” -Anon Our Marketing Intern Lia Limon chose this quote to highlight the importance of knowing your purpose and encouraging yourself to show up daily. Everyone was put on this earth for a purpose and it is up to you when you will find it and what you will do with it. Thank you Lia for the positive and uplifting words to start off the month of October!🍂

📢Exciting Job Opportunity!📢 We're looking for college graduates to share their unique college experiences and inspire the next generation of students! Join us on October 5th and motivate future scholars. Your story could be the spark they need! Scan the QR code to direct to the application.

On October 1, 2024, the FAFSA application will be available to a selected number of students and institutions as part of a phased rollout to test the application process. FAFSA will become available to all students, nationwide, on or before December 1, 2024. The California Dream Act Application (CADAA) will follow FAFSA's nationwide opening date on December 1, 2024. 🎉 Be sure to stay informed!

✨ Mentor Spotlight of the Month! ✨ We're thrilled to introduce Camila Moncada, a junior at CSU Bakersfield with a passion for making a difference. Majoring in psychology with a focus in special education, Camila’s dream is to become a dedicated special education teacher and program coordinator. When she's not studying, you can find her having fun with her adorable dogs, Milo and Minnie! We're so excited to have Camila as part of our AmeriCorps team and can't wait to see her shine on her journey! 🌟

Missed last night’s workshop? No worries! At Y2LEF, we’re here to support your success all year long. 🌟 Our Cash 4 College team is ready to help with your FAFSA/CADAA questions. Check out our website for resources: youth2leaders.org/cash-for-college. Stay tuned for more upcoming workshops to boost your educational journey! 🎓✨ #Y2LEF #Cash4College

🎉Board Member Shoutout! 🎉 Congratulations to Frank Ramirez on your new position as Director of Special Programs at Bakersfield College! Your dedication to our community has always been inspiring, and we have no doubt that you will continue to make a positive impact in this new role. We wish you the best as you embark on this exciting journey!

🌟 Celebrate culture with us at GUELAGUETZA on October 13, 2024! 🎉 Y2LEF partners with unidadpopularbenitojuarez for a day filled with delicious Oaxacan food, vibrant music, and beautiful arts and crafts! 🎶✨ Don’t miss out—bring your friends and family to 8304 Segrue Road, Lamont, CA, from 10 AM to 5 PM. To learn more visit unidadpopular.org/guelaguetza. See you there! 🇲🇽❤️ #Guelaguetza2024 #OaxacanCulture

🎉 Board Member Shoutout! 🎉 We’re beyond excited to announce that our incredible board member, Mari Perez, is being appointed as Vice President of Government Partnerships, GGRF at United Way Worldwide! Mari brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and a deep commitment to creating a lasting impact. Join us in congratulating Mari on this incredible new role and the exciting journey ahead!

Need help with FAFSA or CADAA? 📝Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation is here to support you! We understand that navigating financial aid can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our team is ready to assist students with financial needs, whether it’s answering your questions or guiding you through the application process. Visit our website youth2leaders.org, send us an email, or give us a call – we're dedicated to helping you achieve your educational goals. Let’s work together to make your future brighter! 💡

Excited to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month? Come join the fun at Cultura Fest on October 5th at Beach Park, 3400 21st St. Bakersfield, CA 93301! It’s a vibrant celebration of culture you won’t want to miss! Come enjoy live music, food, local vendors, and a vibrant showcase of culture and community. 🎇🎵🎉

🌟 Paid Speaking Opportunity! 🌟 Are you a bilingual undergraduate student studying outside of Bakersfield? We’re looking for passionate individuals like YOU to inspire the next generation! This is your chance to motivate and connect with future college students. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity! Apply now!

Proud to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month! By celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions. We are reminded of the enduring strength, resilience, and influence of the Hispanic and Latinx communities, which continue to inspire future generations. Let’s take this opportunity to celebrate and uplift these vibrant communities, whose impact reaches far and wide. 🌎🎉

What a tremendous success thanks to YOU! 🙌 Your eagerness to learn and grow made this event truly special. A heartfelt thank you to CSAC, CAL-SOAP, Channel Islands, all our incredible resource booths, and all of our attendees for your invaluable support. Your contributions were essential in making this event a valuable experience for our community. Here’s to continued growth and education—together, we make a difference!

This summer, Jesus has been a shining star at Y2LEF, lending his incredible talents and dedication to our summer camps and Cash 4 College team. As he gears up to return to Cal Poly, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude for all his hard work and enthusiasm. Your contributions have truly made a difference in our mission! Thank you, Jesus, for being an amazing part of our team. 👏🏼

Today, we pause to remember the profound loss of September 11th and the enduring spirit of resilience that followed. We honor the lives lost, the bravery of those who stepped in to help, and the strength of a nation united in the face of adversity.

We're thrilled to introduce our 2024-25 AmeriCorps team! Each member has undergone extensive training to mentor and support students, helping them build essential skills for a successful transition into adulthood. Together, we’re ready to make a lasting impact and be the light in students lives! Here's to a successful year ahead!

Join us tonight for Kern County College Night at Mechanics Bank from 5-8pm! ⏰Explore your future opportunities, connect with colleges, and plan for success. Visit our booth and sign up for our newsletter for a chance to win our giveaway! We look forward to seeing you here!📚

A big thank you to Blue Zones Project for their Purpose Workshop, which inspired us to identify our unique gifts and passions in alignment with our values. This experience was incredibly valuable for our team, helping us learn and practice the journey of discovering our purpose.

"Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That's why it's called the present." -Master Oogway from Kung Fu Panda We’re excited to share this month’s quote, handpicked by our wonderful Program Coordinator, Maria Cazares! Maria chose this quote because embracing the present moment allows us to find joy, build meaningful connections, and take proactive steps toward our dreams. Thank you, Maria, for sharing your uplifting perspective and bringing your positivity to the Y2L team!

Join us tonight at Grow Academy in Arvin from 5:30 - 6:30pm for a valuable workshop on FAFSA and CADAA applications. This is a fantastic opportunity for students, parents, and the Arvin community to gain expert guidance and enhance your financial aid knowledge. We hope to see you there!

You are college material! 🎓📚Community college offers students, including undocumented students, a variety of educational programs to choose from that align with your personal or professional goals. Apply for financial aid by today September 3, 2024 by visiting csac.ca.gov/undocumented

Happy Labor Day! 🇺🇸Our office is closed today in honor of the hard work and dedication this day represents. We’ll be back and open on Tuesday. Have a great holiday!

🎓📣 Calling all college students! 📣🎓 Want to inspire others with your college journey? Join us as a student speaker at College Going Academy! Share your experiences, make an impact, and enjoy a paid speaking opportunity. This is your chance to shine and motivate others with your story. Interested? Scan the QR code and apply now to be a panelist and turn your journey into inspiration! 🌟🙌

Last Call! ⏳ The deadline to apply for California Community College Financial Aid is approaching—September 3! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to support your college journey. Apply here https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa and take a step toward your future! 🎓

Join Gabriel Adame, President & CEO of Y2LEF, and Ramon Sanchez, President of Raices of Kern, at Cultura Fest on October 5th, 2024 from 12-9pm! 🎉 Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with vibrant music, delicious food, and fantastic vendors. Every dollar raised helps Y2LEF empower youth to pursue their educational dreams and build a brighter future. We can’t wait to see you there! 🌟 #CulturaFest2024 #SupportYouth #CelebrateHeritage

Join us tomorrow at Arvin High School (Library) from 5:30 PM - 7 PM for a valuable workshop on FAFSA and CADAA applications. This is a fantastic opportunity for students, parents, and the Arvin community to gain expert guidance and enhance your financial aid knowledge. Don’t miss out on this chance to learn and grow together!

Starting the semester strong! 🚀 Success in college isn’t just about showing up—be an active participant, set your academic goals, and don’t hesitate to use school resources. Take care of your mental health and stick to a study routine that keeps you on track. You’ve got this! 💪 #SuccessStrategies #CollegeReady #HealthyMindset”

Countdown to success! ⏳ September 3rd is the last day to submit your FAFSA/CADAA applications for California Community Colleges. Don’t miss out on this chance to unlock your future. Act now and start your application today: https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa

This week, we’re thrilled to highlight Tania Salas, one of our amazing Program Coordinators here at Y2L! 🎉 Tania has shown incredible dedication to our FAFSA Training Sessions this past month. From leading interviews to facilitating workshops, her expertise and commitment have been invaluable to our success. Thank you, Tania, for being an outstanding resource and driving force behind our journey! 🙌 #dothefafsa

📚 Ready to take the next step in your education journey? Join us today from 5 PM to 6 PM for our Financial Aid Training! Whether you're applying for FAFSA or CADAA, we'll guide you through the process, update you on the latest changes, and answer all your questions. Your path to postsecondary education starts here—don't miss out! #DotheFAFSA

Whether you’re a future chef, electrician, hotel manager, or dental hygienist—FAFSA helps cover the costs of classes, supplies, and more. #DotheFAFSA and get one step closer to your career at https://bit.ly/DoTheFAFSA

Have you ever wondered how financial aid is determined? We have the answers! Our financial literacy post explains the distinctions between institutional, federal, and state financial aid, including the various Cal Grants. The amounts vary depending on whether you attend a community college, university, or CSU. With the new school year approaching, we wish you the best of luck in your studies!

Happy National Nonprofit Day! 🎉 For over three decades, Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation has been dedicated to supporting low-income and underrepresented students in planning and funding their college education. Our mission is to empower more youth to achieve post-secondary credentials, certifications, and degrees that lead to fulfilling careers. We are truly honored to serve and give back to our community. Today, we celebrate the impact we’re creating together, thanks to our incredible community and partners.

🎉 Mark your calendars! On October 5th, Cultura Fest is your destination for celebrating culture! 🌮🎶 Enjoy live music, delicious food, local vendors, and a vibrant display of community spirit. Every dollar raised benefits the Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation in partnership with Raices of Kern, working together to empower our youth for a brighter future. 🌟

2 days left to make your college dreams come true! 🎓 Apply for the College Dream Fund Scholarship before it’s too late! Open to 2024 high school graduates, current college students, or students pursuing an advanced degree. Checkout our Linktree to find the application and apply before this Friday! #ScholarshipCountdown #FutureIsBright

#DotheFAFSA and 10 minutes later, you could be on your way to achieving future goals. The updated FAFSA is more accessible and automated, meaning less time answering fewer questions while getting closer to college. Luckily Y2L's financial aid training sessions are here to help! Join us for an upcoming session and you might just win a gift card. Start at fafsa.gov your future self will thank you!

📚💰 Join us for a Financial Aid Training Workshop on 8/13 from 6-7:30 PM at Grow Academy in Shafter! Learn about the latest financial aid changes, gain valuable knowledge, and get all your questions answered during our Q&A session. Don’t miss this chance to empower yourself with the tools you need for financial success! 💡

Looking for a scholarship opportunity? You have come across the right post! ⏰ Apply for the College Dream Fund Scholarship by August 16th at 5 PM. Your future starts now! 📚💪 #ScholarshipAlert #CollegeBound #DreamBig

🚨 Breaking News! 🚨 The FSA is excited to announce that the 2025-26 FAFSA will be fully functional and available starting December 1, 2024! 🎓✨ With a "phased rollout" and "testing period" kicking off on Oct. 1, 2024, you'll have all the tools and resources you need for a smoother application process. Mark your calendars and stay tuned! 📅🔗 #FAFSA2025 #StudentAid #Education #CollegeBound

Don’t miss your chance to apply for the College Dream Fund Scholarship and take a big step toward your future success. The August 16 deadline is just around the corner. Whether you’re a 2024 high school graduate, a current college student, or pursuing an advanced degree, this scholarship is your chance to shine! Head to our Linktree now to get your application and start your journey!🎓

We are proud to announce that the California Resource Company is contributing $10,000 to the Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation. Thanks to CRC’s generous contribution, we can enhance our programs and provide the essential resources students need to succeed. This contribution will help fund our initiatives and support our continued growth.

Don’t let past setbacks stand in your way—instead let FAFSA help you reach your future. #DotheFAFSA now and get moving on your goals at fafsa.gov