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
Meet Daniel
Daniel, a college third-year, shows how commitment, curiosity, and a strong support system can shape a student’s journey toward a meaningful career. Daniel just finished his associate’s degree at MiraCosta College, and has transferred to UC Irvine to study genetics. Daniel joined Reality Changers during 12th grade at Mission Vista High School. He had always […]
Meet Diego
At Reality Changers, we believe in the power of transformation through education—and few students exemplify that more than Diego, a rising high school senior. His story is one of persistence, ingenuity, and an unwavering commitment to giving back. Growing Up with Full House and a Full Vision Diego grew up in a home shared with […]
Meet Daniela
For Reality ChanGERS gRADUATE Daniela(‘18), education has always been more than a goal; it’s a mission grounded in family values and cultural resilience. “Both my parents immigrated here from Mexico,” Daniela says, “My dad now has his own construction business. But he had only completed third grade by the time he started working to support […]
Agent of Change: Tom Holcomb Jr.
The Reality Changers team has Selected Tom Holcomb Jr. as our fourth quarter “Agent of Change.” This special award recognizes a staff member who shows a deep commitment to our mission and examplifies our values. Read on to learn more about Tom, our College Apps Academy Manager. What college(s) did you attend?Murray State University & […]
