About
In 2017 I saw a viral video about Foster Youth moving into their college dorm rooms all alone at Fresno State University. The video moved me to tears. I shared it on social media and watched it over and over again.
I searched for a similar program close to my home in LA. The internet quickly revealed UCLA's Bruin Guardian Scholars Program . I contacted UCLA, asked if there was Dorm Move-In Day volunteer program and they said, no but they'd love to start one!
I reached out to friends, colleagues, and strangers via social media to ask for donations. Wedding Registries on Amazon and Bed Bath & Beyond helped people pick out a set of towels, laundry bag, or blanket and gift it directly to students. Some generous companies have also donated products over the years.
Now each September volunteers came together on Dorm Move-In Day to help students move into their dorm rooms and make their beds. We also throw the students a Holiday Party with gift bags and stockings providing practical and fun items for the students who typically spend winter break all alone in the dorms.
Our Mission
UCLA Bruin Guardian Scholars Program serves 140 current and former Foster youth who attend UCLA. These students have overcome barriers such as homelessness, family mental health issues, and abuse throughout their lives and are extremely resilient. This program builds a community of peers who have faced similar challenges in life. For more info contact Bruin Guardian Scholars.
A note on donations
I chose not to create a formal 501c3 non-profit organization as that requires extensive tax filings and legal obligations, a formal board process and quarterly meetings. My goal is to spend my time and money directly helping these students, not sitting in meetings or doing paperwork. We do not use crowdfunding sites because they take 5-9% of proceeds. We spend zero dollars on admin, aggregate donations and make sure every penny goes directly to buying students the essentials they need. My family makes up any shortfall in funding. This is a 100% grassroots volunteer effort.
If you prefer to donate directly to UCLA and receive a tax receipt please do! These funds will not be used in our efforts but will go to valuable social work programs including scholarships, study groups, financial and logistical support of students. Donate Directly to UCLA Bruin Guardian Scholars Budget
Other ways to help
For questions about the Dorm Move-In Day or the Holiday Party, contact Volunteer taniaksuster@gmail.com
If you can help a student get a meaningful paid summer internship, contact Ready to Succeed LA
If you are interested in helping Foster Youth starting college near you, this is a partial list of programs and a good place to start your research. Please reach out and help a student, it is rewarding and satisfying to see these students achieve their goals!