First Graduate

As we wrap up this year's annual drive to help more students become the first in their families to graduate from college we're asking supporters like you to "pay it forward" for education. The concept of "paying it forward" is simple - someone performs an act of kindness for a stranger and that act is repaid to someone else, and so on. The ripple effect that is caused by one person "paying it forward" can change the world.

According to a January 5th, 2012 article in The New York Times entitled: “Harder for Americans to Rise from the Lower Rungs,” children of the educated and affluent fare better because they have access to better schools and arrive at them more prepared to learn. 

Our work at First Graduate addresses the obstacles facing underserved youth so that every student has the chance to succeed. We aim to equip first-generation students with the tools, resources, opportunities and network necessary to be successful in college and beyond.

"Thank You" Video from First Graduate students who are on the road to college. 

When you "pay it forward" for education by making a donation to First Graduate, your gift creates a ripple that can change the academic and economic trajectory of our communities for generations to come. Your support goes immediately to serve first-generation college students like Yvette, Kelly, Charlene, and Jesus. 

Supporters of First Graduate have made such a difference in the lives of our students. Our first cohort of students graduated from college last year, and our largest class of high school graduates are now freshman in college - they are attending schools such as San Francisco State University, Harvard, U.C. Santa Cruz and more.

Our vision is for college to be an option for every child in San Francisco. Won’t you join us in helping to make that possible? 

With Appreciation,

President, Board of Directors

Executive Director