ES 
Our Work
Supporting First-Generation Futures
Reality Changers serves youth who will be the first in their families to graduate from college. Our programs support students from racial, ethnic, socio-economic, and academic backgrounds that are typically underrepresented on college campuses and overlooked by institutions. In fact, before Reality Changers, many of our students may not have considered themselves "college material."
Launching Agents of Change
College degrees create new opportunities for individuals. On average, a Bachelor's degree increases a person's lifetime earnings by 84%.
College builds equity for underserved communities. Not only do our graduates bring new economic resources to their families and neighborhoods, they also and work, invest, and get involved in their communities.
Our Youth
Alvaro (‘23)
Karina (‘17)
Michael (‘10)
Our Programs
College Town
College Town is a cost-free afterschool and summer program for 8th-11th graders. The curriculum focuses on building a strong foundation of academic, personal, and community-building skills. Students receive tutoring, join field trips, participate in community service outings, and more. Programs for families help to build resiliency and prepare parents for college.
COLLEGE APPS ACADEMY
College Apps Academy provides cost-free support for high school seniors through the college application process and beyond. We help students get into the 2 and 4-year institutions that are the best fit for them, with an emphasis on maximizing financial aid options and preparing for college life.
The Alumni Network
Just getting first-generation students into college isn’t enough. Nationally, 90% of first-generation, low-income college students don’t graduate within six years. The Alumni Network helps youth get through college graduation and launch their careers.
GET INVOLVED
Volunteer
Looking to get involved with nonprofit organizations in San Diego? You can be the person that makes a difference in a young person’s life.
Visit
Come see our education center and meet students working to become first-generation college graduates.
Donate
Help youth achieve their dreams.
Blog and Media Coverage
See How Reality Changers Makes a Difference
Where Are They Now: Rosa
When Rosa (‘14) was in middle school, she joined Reality Changers. What she thought would be an opportunity for her and her brother to be the first in their family to attend college morphed into her contributing to the developing infrastructure and transportation of San Diego. Her story begins in middle school when she initially […]
How Many Colleges Should You Apply To? A Simple Guide
When it comes to applying for college, the world is your oyster. With no limit on the number of applications a person can submit, many college hopefuls aim to apply to as many schools as possible. Others set their sights on a single school, pinning their hopes and dreams to one institution. While there’s nothing […]
FUNDRAISING IDEAS: TIPS & STRATEGIES TO GET STARTED
Football and baseball phenom Bo Jackson once said, “Set your goals high, and don’t stop till you get there.” You can channel this energy by putting fundraising strategies to work for your favorite cause. While it might initially feel like an uphill battle, reaching an ambitious fundraising goal is easier than you might think and […]
Guiding Growth: Unlocking the Secrets of How to Be a Good Mentor
We all need someone to look up to in life — someone who can offer guidance, wisdom, and support as we navigate the twists and turns of our personal and professional journeys. Mentors play a vital role in shaping our development, helping us to unlock our full potential and achieve our goals. But what truly […]
