Educational Levels in Kern County Compared to California

Wednesday marked another successful week of our Leaders of Tomorrow workshop! 🎉 Our presenter, Joseph Lopez, Community Affairs Advisor at California Resource Corporation, shared his inspiring journey of perseverance and the challenges he overcame on his path to success. Joseph not only shared his story but also led an engaging activity where students worked in teams to build the tallest bridge they could. The lesson behind the exercise? Even if your bridge breaks, falls, or weakens, you can always rebuild and keep moving forward.

This morning, Y2LEF’s President & CEO, Gabriel Adame, had the privilege of serving as a panelist during CSAC’s Student Success Strategy webinar. Gabriel shared the innovative strategies Y2LEF implements to strengthen student success through our diverse programs and initiatives. A special thank you to CSAC for inviting us to join this important conversation alongside other outstanding panelists and for providing a platform to showcase the work being done to support students in our communities.

On behalf of Y2LEF, in collaboration with KCSOS K-16 Collaborative and SSJV Cal-SOAP, we want to recognize and thank the outstanding community leaders who joined us at our press conference. Their leadership and commitment played a key role in bringing attention to the release of the 2026–27 FAFSA/CADAA Application. The strong turnout and impact of this event would not have been possible without their support. Together, we continue working to open doors for students in their pursuit of higher education.

This past Friday, Y2LEF partnered with California Student Aid Commission and Cal-SOAP SSJV to bring together hundreds of Kern County counselors and higher education professionals in preparation for the 2026–2027 Financial Aid Application Season. This event equips educators and counselors with the tools to better support students in pursuing their higher education goals without the burden of financial stress. Special thanks to Bakersfield College for opening their doors for our Annual Statewide Financial Aid Workshop, and to CSAC for an amazing presentation!

With FAFSA applications now open and CADAA applications launching this Wednesday, October 1st, we’re excited to host three workshops on opening day! Join us to receive personalized, one-on-one support from the Y2LEF team, SSJV Cal-SOAP, and CSUB’s TRIO programs. Our experts will guide you through the financial aid application process, answer your questions, and help ensure you have everything you need to submit successfully.

Our Annual Statewide Financial Aid Workshop was an incredible success! 🎉 Thank you to CSAC, BC Cal-SOAP, and our amazing resource booths, and all attendees for making this event so impactful. Because of you, students and families will gain valuable tools and knowledge to support their college journey. 💙📚 Here’s to learning, growing, and creating brighter futures together!

Important Announcement! The 2026–27 FAFSA Application is officially LIVE! Don’t wait, submit your FAFSA early to maximize your financial aid opportunities. Please note: This announcement is for the FAFSA Application only.For questions or support, reach out to us at cash4college@y2lef.org.

Join us on Wednesday, October 1st, 2025, at the KCSOS City Centre, Room 1B, from 2–3 PM for a Financial Aid Press Conference kicking off the new application season! Hear from community leaders and financial aid experts as they share the latest updates and resources to help students navigate the application process. After the press conference, take advantage of Cash 4 College workshops at multiple locations, where professionals will provide one-on-one guidance to help you complete your application and secure funding for your education. Don’t miss this opportunity to start the financial aid season strong!

Ready to make a difference in students’ lives? ✨ We’re looking for a C4C Intern to join our team and support the Cash for College Program! In this role, you’ll help students and families navigate the financial aid process so they can reach their college dreams. 🎓 If you’re passionate about education, love helping others, and want a job that truly matters, this is your chance! Apply now at www.youth2leaders.org/join-the-team and be part of something impactful. #Youth2Leaders #CashForCollege #HiringNow #EducationJobs #KernCounty #CollegeAccess #FinancialAidSupport #MakeADifference

Looking back to our summer programs, Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation is proud to highlight two of our high school programs that created a lasting impact on students: Pre-College / Yo-Puedo and the STEM Institute. We would like to give a heartfelt thank you to The Wonderful Company and their co-founders Lynda and Stewart Resnick, along with their foundations, for their generous donation and for making it our shared mission to support the future of students in the Central Valley. Their commitment has played a vital role in empowering student growth and success. Thank you for helping us make this summer a truly memorable and educational experience for our students!

A heartfelt thank you to Citizens Business Bank for their generous $5,000 donation to our Pre-College Programs. Your support will allow us to serve even more students and introduce them to the incredible opportunities that higher education can provide. We are truly grateful for your support and commitment to student success.

📚Join us in making an impact this Cash for College season! We’re looking for volunteers to support students as they complete their FAFSA or CADAA applications. By signing up, you’ll play a key role in helping students take an important step toward their future education and career goals. Getting started is easy! Just scan the QR code and fill out the form! Together, we can guide the next generation of scholars and leaders toward success.

Earlier this week, our team attended the CSU Counselor High School Conference, where we learned about the latest updates and resources to better support our students! Through workshops and presentations, our team gained valuable insight to further strengthen their knowledge and ensure students and families have access to the best academic resources available.

Today marks the launch of our Leaders of Tomorrow Program in partnership with California Resources Corporation! We’re excited to return to Richland Junior High in Shafter with another round of impactful workshops. We kicked off with an inspiring session led by Annelisa C. Perez, Community Development Supervisor at CAPK, who shared her professional journey and encouraged students to explore their own paths of growth and development. 🌟 A big thank you to Annelisa for starting us off strong, we look forward to the upcoming workshops and all the opportunities ahead for our students! 🙌

What a successful night at the Celebration Del Grito De Dolores event, kicking off Hispanic Heritage Month! 🎉 A big thank you to Tri Counties Bank for donating their booth to us and to the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for hosting such a wonderful celebration. The evening was filled with delicious food, helpful resources, and a great community!

This Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrate the vibrant cultures, traditions, and contributions that strengthen our communities. We honor the history, uplift the voices, and embrace the heritage that continues to inspire a brighter future. #HispanicHeritageMonth #LatinxHeritageMonth

Flashback Friday! Y2LEF, in collaboration with Bakersfield College, CALSOAP, and CSAC, is excited for another amazing event! We look forward to welcoming school counselors and community educators who play a vital role in shaping our future leaders. 🌟 The day will be filled with valuable resources and insightful information for all who attend.

Today we pause to reflect, remember, and honor those we lost on 9/11.

Are you an undergrad outside of Bakersfield who enjoys sharing your college journey? We are looking for student speakers to inspire the next generation, and this is a paid opportunity. As a paid opportunity, share your story and give back to the community to help motivate future college students. Scan the QR code or click the link in our bio to apply today!

Kern County College Night was a success, and Y2LEF was proud to be part of such an impactful evening! We connected with students and parents, sharing resources to help guide their pathways to higher education and beyond. Our mission is to ensure that every student has access to opportunities that prepare them for success. If you weren’t able to join us last night, you can still explore resources and learn more about how we can support you by visiting www.youth2leaders.org Thank you to @kcsosofficial for the amazing pictures!

This week’s spotlight shines on Y2LEF’s HR Coordinator, Sharon Escalera. Sharon has been part of our Y2LEF family for three years, beginning as an intern and growing into the role she holds today. Her dedication, kindness, and behind-the-scenes support keep our team moving forward and make a lasting difference every day. We are truly thankful for all that she brings to our organization.

Y2LEF would like to thank our former intern, Nicholas Geronimo, for all the support he gave to our IT Department and Cash 4 College Team. It has been such a pleasure having him on our team, and we are beyond excited to see him begin his first year at Cal Poly SLO. We’re confident he has a bright future ahead and can’t wait to see where his journey takes him.

College Going Academy is right around the corner! 🎓 Looking to make a difference in a student’s academic journey while getting paid? This is your chance! Share your college experience, inspire the next generation, and choose the date that works best for you. Scan the QR code to apply today!

Today marked the launch of our Lost Hills After School Program, where TK–8th grade students participated in a variety of grade-level activities, from home gardening to circuit boards and beyond. We are excited for all that’s to come throughout the rest of the year!

Today is the California Community College Financial Aid Priority Deadline and this is your last chance to get help with your FAFSA or CADAA application. This workshop is completely virtual so you can join from anywhere by simply logging in through Zoom using the Meeting ID. Join us today from 9 AM to 12 PM for our final Financial Aid Workshop for the 2024-2025 Financial Aid season! Our team will guide you through the process, answer your questions, and make sure you do not miss out on the financial support you deserve for college. Act now because after today it will be too late!

Happy Labor Day from all of us at Y2LEF! 🇺🇸 Today we take a moment to honor the hard work, dedication, and contributions of workers in our community and across the nation. In observance of the holiday, our offices will be closed on Monday, September 1, 2025. We hope you enjoy a safe and restful day with your loved ones. Normal business hours will resume on Tuesday, September 2, 2025.

A big thank you to the @bakochamber for featuring Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation on the Chamber Perk, sponsored by Bank of America! We’re excited to share our upcoming segment with you soon. Stay tuned!

Calling all undergraduate students! We’re offering a paid opportunity to share your college journey and inspire local high school students. Talk about your path, how you chose your major, what life on campus is like, and your experience studying outside of Bakersfield. Scan the QR code to apply and join us as a student speaker. 📲

We’d like to take a moment to recognize and celebrate our staff who are beginning their first week of college, whether in undergraduate or graduate programs. Your commitment to continuing your education reflects the very mission of Y2LEF and serves as an inspiring example of perseverance and growth. We wish you the best of luck this semester and an amazing first week of school! 🎓

Need help paying for college? 🎓 Join CSAC's FREE online Cash for College workshops and get step-by-step guidance on FAFSA, CADAA, and financial aid resources. Learn about important deadlines, get your questions answered, and access support to help you succeed. Register today!

Y2LEF is excited to welcome Nicolas Ramirez as our newest Program Intern! Nick has already made a positive impact by supporting our programs and helping the team prepare for the year ahead. His dedication, versatility, and passion for student success make him an outstanding addition to our organization. We are thrilled to have him on board and look forward to celebrating the many contributions he will bring to the Y2LEF mission.

Still haven’t had time to finish your Financial Aid Application? You’re in luck, happy financial aid friday! 🎉 Join us today for a virtual workshop where you’ll receive one-on-one support to complete your application. Don’t miss out, scan the QR code or visit youth2leaders.org/cash-for-college to join!

Meet Alyena Herrera, one of our incredible externs through MAOF! Alyena has been a valuable part of the Y2LEF team, supporting our office with administrative tasks while building her clerical skills. Her dedication, eagerness to learn, and positive attitude have made a big impact on our team. We’re so excited to continue watching Alyena grow and shine during her externship! 🌟

Tomorrow, August 21st, join us at Holloway-Gonzales Library from 2:30 to 5:00 PM for our Cash 4 College Workshop. Get step-by-step support with your FAFSA or CADAA before the September 2nd priority deadline. Don’t miss this chance to secure your financial aid for college. Mañana, 21 de agosto, acompáñenos en la biblioteca Holloway-Gonzales de 2:30 a 5:00 PM para nuestro taller de Cash 4 College. Reciba ayuda paso a paso para completar su FAFSA o CADAA antes de la fecha límite prioritaria del 2 de septiembre. No pierda la oportunidad de asegurar su ayuda financiera para la universidad.

Are you an undergraduate college student? Y2LEF has a PAID opportunity just for you! Join us on an upcoming Saturday to share your college journey and give our College Going Academy students an inside look at the college experience. Interested? Scan the QR code or click the link in our bio to apply today!

This summer, our dedicated team of REACH tutors proudly served students across Kern County in partnership with KCSOS Migrant Education Region 5. The program supported 3,699 students and reached our highest number of books delivered yet, inspiring students to read, learn, and grow. Let’s give a huge shoutout to our team for an amazing summer!

Calling all college students! 📣 If you’re an undergrad at a college or trade school outside of Bakersfield and love talking about your campus life, we want to hear from you! 🎓✨ Join us as a paid speaker for our College Going Academy sessions held on Saturdays. Inspire local students with your journey and share what college is really like! Scan the QR code or click the link in our bio to apply today!

Stop by the Northeast Branch of the Kern County Library today between 2:30 and 5 PM for free assistance with your financial aid applications. This workshop is open to everyone. Make sure to take advantage of this opportunity to submit your application before the California Community College deadline on September 2, 2025.

This morning we joined United Way of CEC’s "Comunidad Unida" with our Program Coordinator, Tania Salas, to share details about our free Cash 4 College workshops and what to bring to complete your application. 📚✨ Tune in to Univision on Sunday, August 24th to watch the full segment, which also features CAPK Bakersfield’s Senior Communications Coordinator, Ernesto Leon! Thank you to United Way of CEC and Univision for the opportunity to share these valuable resources. Esta mañana participamos en "Comunidad Unida" de United Way of CEC con nuestra Coordinadora de Programa, Tania Salas, para compartir información sobre nuestros talleres gratuitos de Cash 4 College y qué llevar para completar tu solicitud. 📚✨ ¡Sintoniza Univision el domingo 24 de agosto para ver el segmento completo, que también presenta a Ernesto Leon, Coordinador Senior de Comunicaciones de CAPK Bakersfield! Gracias a United Way of CEC y Univision por la oportunidad de compartir estos valiosos recursos.

Ready to secure your college dreams? Join us for our Cash 4 College workshop and get hands-on help with your financial aid application. Whether it’s FAFSA, Dream Act, or other aid, we will guide you every step of the way and it is completely free. Don’t miss the chance to make college more affordable. The workshop will be on Wednesday, August 13th from 2:30 to 6:00 PM at the Southwest Branch Library in Bakersfield. 💰🎓 ¿Listo para asegurar tu futuro universitario? Ven a nuestro taller Cash 4 College y recibe ayuda personalizada para llenar tu solicitud de ayuda financiera. Ya sea FAFSA, Dream Act u otra ayuda, te guiamos en cada paso y es totalmente gratis. No pierdas la oportunidad de hacer la universidad más accesible. El taller será el miércoles 13 de agosto de 2:30 a 6:00 PM en la Biblioteca Sucursal Suroeste en Bakersfield. 💰🎓

Join us later today for our free Cash 4 College workshop! Our financial aid experts will guide you step-by-step through your application to help you stay on track before the California Community College priority deadline on September 2nd. Don’t miss this chance to secure funding for your education and take the next step toward your future with confidence.

Our team had an amazing time today at the Back to School Resource Fair held at South High School! We enjoyed connecting with families and students, sharing information, and providing resources to help them start the school year strong. Along with community support, we were able to share valuable higher education resources including college pathways and financial aid information to help students plan for their future.

¿Ya solicitaste ayuda financiera antes? No pierdas la oportunidad de seguir avanzando. Los estudiantes de renovación aún califican para ayuda financiera — pero necesitas volver a solicitarla cada año para mantenerte al día. 📅 ¡No pierdas la fecha límite! Renueva tu solicitud hoy en csac.ca.gov/apply

Mark your calendars! This August, we are hosting a variety of Financial Aid Workshops to help you complete your application before the California Community College deadline on September 2nd. You can choose the format that works best for you. Join us in person for hands-on guidance or attend online from the comfort of your home. Our team will walk you through the process, answer your questions, and make sure you have everything you need to submit on time. Don’t wait. Secure your spot and take the next step toward your educational goals! 🎓⏰

This morning, our Y2LEF team joined Chase Bank’s Back-to-School Resource Fair at their Oswell branch! We were excited to connect with families and share resources that support students on their journey to higher education. Nearly 200 students received backpacks and school supplies to kick off the new school year prepared and confident. Huge thank you to Chase Bank for including us in such an impactful event! 🎒📚

This week's spotlight is on our incredible Cash 4 College Coordinators, Erick and Tania! Their dedication to helping students navigate the financial aid process is unmatched. From one-on-one support to leading workshops, they’ve gone above and beyond to ensure students have the resources and guidance they need to pursue their college dreams. 🎓 Thank you, Erick and Tania, for making a lasting impact!

Missed today’s workshop? No worries, Financial Aid Friday’s are being hosted virtually by our Cash 4 College team! Check out the upcoming dates and don’t miss your chance to complete your 2025–2026 financial aid application. Just scan the QR code or enter the Meeting ID to join. For more workshop dates, visit youth2leaders.org/cash-for-college 🎓

This week’s spotlight goes to our incredible Program Coordinators, Paola and Tizoc! 🌟 Their dedication and hard work have been essential in making our summer programs a success. From camp to camp, they’ve gone above and beyond to support our students and bring each program to life. Thank you both for your passion, energy, and commitment this summer!

Looking for in-person assistance with your 2025–2026 financial aid application? We’re here to help! Join us at one of our upcoming workshops hosted at Tri-Counties Bank, where our team will guide you through the application process step by step. Don’t miss this opportunity to get your questions answered and ensure your application is submitted before the California Community College deadline on September 2, 2025. ¿Necesitas ayuda en persona con tu solicitud de ayuda financiera para el año escolar 2025–2026? ¡Estamos aquí para ayudarte! Acompáñanos en uno de nuestros próximos talleres organizados en Tri-Counties Bank, donde nuestro equipo te guiará paso a paso durante el proceso de solicitud. No pierdas esta oportunidad de resolver tus dudas y asegurarte de enviar tu solicitud antes de la fecha límite del Colegio Comunitario de California, el 2 de septiembre de 2025. #FinancialAid #youth2leaders #HigherEducation #Application #FAFSA #CADAA

📢 Big News for Students & Families! Starting October 1, you can apply for financial aid for the 2026–27 academic year by submitting your FAFSA or CADAA application! 💸 This is your chance to access federal, state, and institutional aid to help make college more affordable. Get ready to apply! Now is the time to start preparing and gathering everything you’ll need. Need help applying? Attend a Cash for College workshop or Zoom session; free, expert support available to guide you through the process. Be sure to be on the lookout to see what workshops we have available by visiting: www.youth2leaders.org/cash-for-college Don’t miss out! Let’s make college happen together! 🎓

In partnership with KCSOS Migrant Region 5 and as a supporter of the program, this past Saturday marked the end of our Pre-College / Yo Puedo Camp at UCSB! 🎓✨With over 130 students in attendance, the week was filled with opportunities to enhance college readiness through engaging ELA classes, leadership-building activities, and immersive campus exploration. 📚 Throughout the week, students strengthened their skills in literature, writing, and college preparation, all while building meaningful connections and lasting memories. We’re incredibly proud of their growth and everything they accomplished during their time at UCSB!

Thank you Bakersfield Young Professionals for having our President & CEO, Gabriel Adame, as this month’s guest speaker! Today’s conversation centered around the power of mentorship and meaningful connection. With community, passion, and purpose, we can inspire and lead the next generation of young professionals. Each topic explored the many ways our youth can become changemakers in our community, and the impact starts now! 🌟

High school graduation is just the beginning and financial aid is available for your next step. Whether you're heading to community college or exploring career training, CSAC is here to support you. The future is closer than you think. 🎓 Learn how to apply for aid at csac.ca.gov/apply

In partnership with KCSOS Migrant Region 5 and as a supporter of the program, Y2LEF's Pre-College/Yo Puedo Program kicked off last Saturday with over 130 students staying on the beautiful campus of the University of California, Santa Barbara! Throughout the week, students are diving into ELA classes, participating in leadership and cultural activities, building college readiness skills, and getting an immersive experience of campus life. Today, students explored UCSB through an exciting scavenger hunt, where they worked in teams to discover key locations and significant landmarks across campus, turning learning into an adventure!

Join us on Thursday, July 24th, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM for our free Financial Aid Workshop, hosted virtually via Zoom. This workshop is open to the public and provides one-on-one assistance with completing your FAFSA or California Dream Act Application (CADAA). Whether you're just getting started or need help finishing up, our team is here to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have. Don't miss this opportunity to get the support you need to access financial aid for your education.

In partnership with @kcsosofficial Migrant Region 5 and as a supporter of the program, this past Friday, we wrapped up our annual STEM Institute at the University of California, Santa Barbara! This two-week program featured engaging presentations from STEM professionals who inspired students to pursue higher education. Throughout the camp, students brought their learning to life by participating in hands-on activities like building LED cards, creating their own Bluetooth speakers, launching bottle rockets, and much more. Beyond academics, students had the chance to explore the UCSB campus and build lasting friendships with peers from across the region.

We’d like to take a moment to sincerely thank our incredible RAs, teaching staff, our on-site nurse, and every team member who helped make our summer camps such a success, including those who may not be pictured here but whose impact was deeply felt. Your dedication, care, and behind-the-scenes efforts helped our Algebra Academy, STEM Academy, and High School STEM Institute run smoothly while creating a safe, engaging, and inspiring environment for our students. We are truly grateful for each and every one of you!

In partnership with KCSOS Migrant Region 5 and as a supporter of the program , we proudly concluded our final week of Algebra Academy at UCSB! 📚This past Saturday marked the end of Week 3, where students deepened their understanding of algebraic concepts, engaged in hands-on STEM projects, and participated in collaborative activities that fostered problem-solving and critical thinking. Throughout the week, they not only strengthened their academic skills but also built confidence, leadership, and a strong sense of community. We are incredibly proud of the growth our students have shown as they continue to pursue their dreams in higher education and beyond!

Want to make a real difference in your community? 📚 Join us in guiding students and families through the financial aid process and help open doors to higher education. Scan the QR code or click the link in our bio to sign up today!

In partnership with @kcsosofficial Migrant Region 5 and as a supporter of the program, the STEM Institute is wrapping up its final week, and students are buzzing with excitement as they hear from inspiring STEM professionals who are fueling their dreams of higher education. They’re putting their new skills to the test by designing edible DNA models, building circuit boards, and exploring physics through fun challenges like the classic egg drop. It’s amazing to see them thrive and bring their learning to life!

Join a team that’s making a difference in the lives of Kern County’s youth! We’re hiring Y2LEF Mentors and Tutors to help students grow, learn, and succeed. If you’re passionate about supporting today's youth and want flexible part-time work, we’d love to have you on our team. Positions are open until filled, apply today at www.youth2leaders.org/join-the-team or click the link in our bio!

Are you ready to inspire young minds and make a real impact? We’re looking for dedicated Y2L Tutors to support TK–4th grade students in building strong skills and confidence in Math and English. This part-time position offers a flexible schedule, perfect for anyone passionate about helping kids succeed. Don’t miss this chance to make a difference every day. Apply now and join our Y2L team! Click the link in our bio or visit www.youth2leaders.org/join-the-team

In partnership with @kcsosofficial Migrant Region 5 and as a supporter of the program, earlier this week at Y2LEF’s STEM Institute being held at the University of California, Santa Barbara, we had the privilege of welcoming Mark Adame, an MD/PhD student at University of Michigan. He shared his inspiring journey through the challenges and triumphs of higher education, encouraging students to set ambitious goals and persevere in achieving their academic dreams. We sincerely thank Mr. Adame for taking the time to speak to our students and inspire them on their educational paths.

Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation is currently hiring part-time Y2L Mentors to support foster youth throughout Kern County. If you’re interested in this opportunity, visit our website by clicking the link in our bio or go to www.youth2leaders.org/join-the-team to see the full job description and submit your application!

In partnership with @kcsosofficial Migrant Region 5 and as a supporter of the program, we’re excited to welcome our final group of students to Algebra Academy at UCSB! This week, they’ve already been strengthening their algebra skills in the classroom, engaging with inspiring experts, and growing as future leaders, all while getting a real taste of college life. Let’s make this last week the best one yet! 📚✨🎓

In partnership with @kcsosofficial Migrant Region 5 and as a supporter of this program, our two-week STEM Institute launched this Sunday, giving high school students hands-on STEM experiences while living and learning on the UCSB campus. From labs to lectures, they’re building skills, friendships, and a vision for college life! 🌟🔍

This past week, we proudly welcomed 30 motivated students who immersed themselves in a week full of learning, collaboration, and growth. From sharpening their math skills and exploring hands-on STEM challenges, to participating in leadership activities and building lasting relationships, each moment was designed to empower their confidence and spark their curiosity. We’re beyond proud of every student who committed to showing up, pushing their limits, and embracing what it means to be a future leader in STEM. The journey doesn’t end here!💫

In observance of Independence Day, our office will be closed Friday, July 4th. We wish you a safe, joyful holiday and look forward to seeing you when we reopen on Monday, July 7th!

July is the month to get your financial aid application submitted! We’re teaming up with Mono County Free Library for two free virtual workshops on July 9th & July 24th. These workshops are open to all incoming and current college students. More workshops may be added, so keep an eye out!

STEM Academy is in full swing, and our students are actively building skills in Math, STEM, and leadership! From hands-on STEM activities to collaborative challenges, students are growing their knowledge and teamwork. We’re only partway through the week, and we’re excited to see how they continue to build, explore, and thrive in the days ahead.

We launched our week of STEM Academy by welcoming 30 curious and committed students ready to dive into new challenges. A big thank you to Olivia Kent from Kern Community Foundation for starting us off with such an impactful message. Your story encouraged our students to think big, stay grounded, and lead with purpose, the perfect spark to kick off a week of growth and innovation.

We're Live Now! Join our Virtual Financial Aid Workshop happening right now! 🎓 Whether you're working on your FAFSA or CADAA application, our expert team is here to guide you step-by-step and answer all your questions. 💻

We’ve officially wrapped up the first week of Algebra Academy! More than 110 students spent the week experiencing college life at UC Santa Barbara while expanding their knowledge in algebra and diving into beginner-level robotics coding. Students walked away not only with stronger academic skills but also with new friendships and a clearer vision of what their future in higher education could look like. Although we’re sad to see our first group of 2025 go, we’re thrilled to welcome our next group of students this Sunday!

Still need help with your FAFSA or CADAA? Join us for our Cash for College Workshop on Monday, June 30th from 5:30–7:30 PM in Delano! Get 1:1 support from financial aid experts, enjoy light snacks, and make sure you’re ready for college success! 🎓 ¿Aún necesitas ayuda con tu FAFSA o CADAA? ¡Acompáñanos a nuestro taller de Cash for College el lunes 30 de junio de 5:30 a 7:30 PM en Delano! Recibe apoyo personalizado de expertos en ayuda financiera, disfruta de refrigerios ligeros y prepárate para el éxito universitario.

With just two days remaining, Algebra Academy has been a dynamic journey of learning and discovery. Students have sharpened their math skills through engaging algebra activities, brought ideas to life with robotics, and explored the wonders of the Santa Barbara Zoo, all while building lasting memories.

We’re halfway through the first week of Algebra Academy at UCSB, and the excitement is building! Students are diving deeper into coding, constructing their own VEX robotics, and sharpening their math skills through engaging, hands-on activities. They’re also broadening their cultural understanding through an inspiring cultural presentation, making this a truly enriching experience all around.

We’ve got a new look, but our mission stays strong! Our new logo celebrates where we’ve been and boldly points to where we’re headed. Together with our students, partners, and supporters, we’re continuing to build brighter futures and create lasting impact. This is just the beginning! 🎓💡

The 2025 Algebra Academy has officially begun! More than 60 students arrived at UC Santa Barbara yesterday, ready to learn and explore. Their first day included diving into pattern challenges in the classroom and ending with some well-earned fun at the Recreation Center, crafting bracelets or hitting the field for a game of soccer!

Our T.O.M.M.Y. Program at the University of Southern California (USC) is coming to a close, with tomorrow being the final day. It’s been an eventful week for students as they calculated the physics behind the rollercoasters!

Today, we honor Juneteenth, a powerful reminder of resilience, liberation, and the ongoing pursuit of justice and equality. As we reflect on this important day in history, we stand in solidarity with those who continue to fight for freedom and equity in all forms. In observance of the Juneteenth holiday, our offices will be closed on Thursday, June 19th, and we will resume normal business hours on Friday, June 20th.

Last Thursday was a night to remember. We had the incredible honor of celebrating and awarding scholarships to over 30 amazing students from across Kern County. Each recipient represents determination, growth, and the power of education to transform futures. Thank you to our community partners, donors, families, and supporters who made this special evening possible. Moments like these remind us why we do what we do. 📚 🎓 Congratulations to all of our 2025 scholarship recipients! #ScholarshipCelebration #Y2LEF #KernCountyYouth #CollegeBound #FutureLeaders #ScholarshipSuccess #CommunitySupport

Catching up with our students at USC! It’s Day 3 of our T.O.M.M.Y. Program, and students are diving deep into mathematical concepts, bringing them to life through bridging activities and collaborative group work. We love seeing their growth and enthusiasm as they build a strong foundation for success! 🌟📚✏️

We are deeply honored to share that Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation received the Educational Excellence Award at this past Saturday’s Beautiful Bakersfield Award Ceremony. This recognition is a true testament to the dedication and hard work of our team, and we are grateful to see our efforts making a meaningful impact. It is a privilege to serve the youth of Kern County through our programs and scholarships, supporting their journey toward higher education. Thank you to the Greater Bakersfield Chamber for this incredible honor.

Today, we’re celebrating the fathers and father figures who cheer on our students, support their dreams, and lead by example every day. Thank you for the small moments and big lessons, your support helps shape the future leaders we work so hard to empower. Happy Father's Day!

Our team is officially summer-ready! After today’s inspiring leadership workshop with Gilverto Herrera and Sal Avalos, our staff is prepped, motivated, and excited to kick off another impactful season of summer camps. We’re ready to welcome our students for a summer of learning, growth, and fun!📚✏️📏

🎓 Today, we proudly recognized over 30 students with scholarships to support their path toward higher education. These awards help lift the financial weight of college, opening doors to new opportunities. Congratulations to all the recipients, your hard work is just the beginning! 🌟📘

The countdown is on! 💫 As we prepare to celebrate our 2025 scholarship recipients, take a look back at last year’s joyful moments. Tomorrow, we honor the determination, resilience, and achievements of our amazing students. Let the celebration begin!

🎓💸 Need help paying for college? We've got you covered! Join one of our FREE Cash 4 College workshops to get expert help completing your FAFSA or CA Dream Act application! Choose the workshop that works for you: 2 Virtual sessions in partnership with Mono County Free Library 2 In-person workshops in Delano with Loud For Tomorrow Don’t miss out on financial aid, your future deserves it!

Over the weekend, more than 50 middle school students took part in our Annual Math Academy at the Rancho El Chorro Outdoor School in San Luis Obispo! Through engaging, hands-on math activities and inspiring sessions with STEM professionals, students not only strengthened their academic skills but also discovered new possibilities for their futures. From solving real-world problems to exploring the outdoors, it was a weekend full of learning, growth, and exploration! 💡✨

Yesterday marked the conclusion of our very first Write to Thrive Academy at the University of Southern California! In partnership with the Migrant Education Program at @kcsosofficial , this program focused on strengthening students’ literacy and leadership skills while embracing and celebrating their cultural identity. 📚🎓

Our two-part session kicked off Monday with a visit to Bakersfield College, where students explored academic programs and got a feel for campus life. We wrapped up the week with an unforgettable trip to Universal Studios, taking over 20 foster youth students for a day full of rides, fun, and bonding!

This past Saturday, 15 of our students explored the Discovery Cube in Los Angeles for an exciting day of STEM-filled fun! The experience was full of discovery, imagination, and unforgettable learning moments. 🔬🧪

We kicked off an unforgettable week on Saturday with the launch of Write to Thrive at USC! 🎉📚 Kern County middle school students are diving into writing, building leadership skills, and getting a taste of college life, all in one powerful experience! The week wraps up this Thursday, but the memories and impact will last far beyond! 💫

We had an incredible day at Bakersfield College with over 20 amazing foster youth middle school students! They explored the campus, learned about future college opportunities, created their own tie-dye shirts, and enjoyed a fun ice cream social 🍦👕✨ We’re so proud of their excitement for learning and can’t wait for our upcoming Universal Studios trip! 🎢🎬

Saturday STEM Adventures! 🧪 Our young scientists wrapped up their final session of the Saturday STEM Program with an exciting trip to the Discovery Cube in Los Angeles! From hands-on experiments to mind-blowing exhibits, curiosity was in full gear. What a memorable way to celebrate all their hard work! 🎉🔬

Did you know? Our brand-new Write to Thrive program launches tomorrow! We’re sending 50 Kern County middle schoolers to USC for a week of hands-on writing workshops, leadership activities, and a full college immersion experience. It’s all about building confidence, strengthening skills, and showing students what’s possible when they dream big. Let’s cheer them on as they take a big step toward their education! 🙌📖