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
PRESS RELEASE – CELEBRATING RIPPLES OF CHANGE
CELEBRATING RIPPLES OF CHANGE 260 Guests Raise Funds for First Generation College Students SAN DIEGO, CA (April 12, 2025) — On Friday, April 11th, local nonprofit Reality Changers hosted a gala-style fundraiser in support of their mission to prepare youth to become first-generation college graduates and agents of change in their communities. The event was […]
In my Own Words: Hashima (’24)
“I was born in Afghanistan. Growing up, I always wanted to go to school and become a doctor. However, I was uncertain if I would be able to achieve my dreams because of the academic challenges Afghan girls face due to the Taliban’s regime. I was lucky enough to move to the United States, where […]
the Impact of After-School Programs on Chronic Absenteeism
Understanding Chronic Absenteeism and Its Consequences Chronic absenteeism isn’t just about missing a day or two of school—it’s when a student misses 10 percent or more of the school year for any reason. That’s about 18 days in a standard school year, and it adds up fast. The numbers don’t lie: According to national data, more […]
A Model for Combating Chronic Absenteeism
Chronic absenteeism is a challenge that schools across the country face, impacting students’ academic performance and future opportunities. At Reality Changers, we take a proactive approach to combat absenteeism by providing students with structured after-school programs. By fostering mentorship, leadership, and academic support, we create an environment where students feel motivated to show up, stay […]