ES Being the Change We Wish to See
Reality Changers champions and walks alongside first-generation college students as we work together to overcome systemic barriers rooted in racism and oppression. We are accountable to the diverse communities that we serve--especially those that include people of color--and actively affirm the dignity of all individuals.
Who We Are
Demographics Charts
Students
Staff
Board
14% of Reality Changers Staff Members are program graduates
Understanding DEI
At Reality Changers, our mission to prepare youths as first-generation college graduates and community leaders goes hand-in-hand with our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
We believe that while talent exists in every community, opportunity often does not. That’s why fostering DEI isn’t just a guiding principle – it’s essential to our work. By breaking down barriers to higher education and creating spaces where every student feels valued and supported, we’re cultivating the leaders and changemakers of tomorrow.
Understanding the meaning of DEI – diversity, equity, and inclusion – means recognizing that true progress comes when everyone can participate and thrive. This commitment fuels not only the success of our students but also the cultural and intellectual richness of the communities they go on to serve.
Together, we’re building a future where all young people can access the tools, knowledge, and opportunities they need to transform their lives and positively impact the world.
Diversity
Diversity is about so much more than just who’s in the room. It’s about embracing every individual’s unique identities, perspectives, and experiences. So, what is DEI to us? It’s a commitment to creating spaces where young people from all walks of life feel seen, valued, and able to succeed.
Diversity at Reality Changers takes many forms – race, ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic background, language, sexuality, immigration status, and more. But beyond representation, it’s about recognizing the power of those differences. When students, volunteers, and staff with diverse perspectives come together, something amazing happens: new ideas spark, creativity flourishes, and solutions to big challenges emerge.
Our work is rooted in breaking down barriers for first-generation college students and creating opportunities that reflect the richness of their experiences. At Reality Changers, diversity isn’t just a box to check. It’s the foundation of the innovation and resilience we see in our students every day. Together, we’re building a community where every voice matters and every dream has the chance to thrive.
Equity
Equity is more than just a buzzword; it’s at the heart of everything we do. So, what does DEI stand for, and how does equity fit in? Equity is about leveling the playing field by addressing the barriers that affect first-generation college students.
Equity means acknowledging that not everyone starts from the same place. Some of our students face systemic challenges – whether it’s limited access to resources, generational cycles of inequality, or discrimination based on their identity or background. At Reality Changers, we work to tear down those barriers and provide the tools, support, and opportunities every student needs to thrive.
It’s not just about fairness; it’s about action. By redistributing resources and creating programs tailored to the unique challenges our students face, we’re helping them reach their full potential. Whether it’s mentorship, academic guidance, or building confidence, equity fuels the success of the leaders and changemakers we’re empowering every day.
At Reality Changers, equity isn’t just a principle; it’s the promise that every student, no matter where they come from, has the chance to shine.
Inclusion
Inclusion is at the heart of DEI. It’s about creating a space where everyone feels they belong, are respected, and can fully participate. It’s about not just being welcomed but feeling valued and empowered to bring your authentic self to the table.
At Reality Changers, inclusion means actively embracing each student's unique experiences, perspectives, and identities. It’s ensuring that every voice is not only heard but celebrated. From thoughtful accommodations to open and respectful dialogue, inclusion is woven into every aspect of our work. For this reason, it is important to us that our staff and volunteers reflect the diversity of our students. We provide role models and mentors with similar life experiences that make youth feel like they belong.
This commitment to inclusion is about removing barriers and building bridges. When young people feel safe, supported, and connected, they can dream bigger, take risks, and succeed in ways they never thought possible. It’s how DEI becomes more than a framework – it becomes a lived experience for every student.
Accessibility, Anti-Racism, Community, and Justice in Action
At Reality Changers, DEI is more than a mission. It’s our foundation. But DEI goes deeper than the buzzwords. For us, it’s about turning values like accessibility, anti-racism, community, and justice into meaningful action.
Accessibility means opening doors that have traditionally been closed. We strive to remove barriers so every student has the tools, resources, and opportunities to thrive, whether it’s academic support, mentorship, or simply a welcoming space to grow.
Anti-racism is a commitment to acknowledging racial inequality and actively challenging the systems and biases perpetuating it. It’s listening to the voices of those impacted, addressing inequities head-on, and creating an environment where students from all backgrounds feel valued and respected.
Community is at the core of everything we do. It’s about building connections, fostering collaboration, and creating a sense of belonging for students and families. When young people feel supported by a strong community, they gain the confidence to take on challenges and become leaders in their own right.
Justice reminds us that equity isn’t about treating everyone equally. It’s about ensuring fairness. It means identifying and addressing the root causes of inequity to ensure every student has the chance to reach their full potential. Justice is about addressing present challenges and creating a better future.
At Reality Changers, DEI is a living, breathing practice. It’s in every conversation, every program, and every connection we build. Together, we’re not just shaping students’ lives. We’re helping them transform their communities and the world. Get involved today.
Land Acknowledgment
Reality Changers acknowledges that we reside on the unceded territory and native lands of the Kumeyaay Nation, also known as the Kumeyaay-Diegueño Nation. It is important that we educate ourselves and others about the longstanding history that has allowed us to inhabit Kumeyaay Nation land. We respect and honor the homelands of the Kumeyaay people; we strive to move beyond words into actions that fully embody a commitment to Indigenous rights and our values of community and equity.