We bridge the gap.
Berkeley Community Scholars empowers Berkeley youth who face racial, economic, and other barriers to achieving their college dreams.
Who We Are
Established in 1991 as the Berkeley Community Fund, we pivoted in 2008 to focus on higher-education access for first-generation college students from low-income Berkeley High School backgrounds. We administer High Hopes Scholarships across three pathways — community college, transfer, and bachelor’s degree — with funds that can cover textbooks, travel, or reduced work hours so scholars can focus on their studies.
We Believe. They Achieve.
Each scholar is paired with a community mentor and supported by dedicated college success advising. The results speak for themselves: 75% of our scholars have earned a degree and 92% are persisting toward one.
College Bound. Future Boundless.
Our scholars become engaged citizens who inspire others and create a new cycle of success — contributing to a more diverse and equitable future for Berkeley and beyond.