How to Support
Your support helps Guardian Scholars thrive — turning the journey from foster care to independence into a reality. Whether you're a mentor, advocate, friend or fan, your gift makes a lasting impact.
Improving college outcomes for foster youth
Former foster youth face significant challenges and barriers to completing high school and pursuing higher education.
In California, approximately 4,500 youth age out of foster care each year, yet only 25% go on to attend college. Nationally, just 1–3% of foster youth earn a four-year bachelor’s degree.
At SFSU, the Guardian Scholars Program (GSP) currently supports over 100 undergraduate and graduate students. Despite the odds, our students are thriving with over a 65% 6-year graduate rate and over a 95% persistence rate.
Help empower former foster
Make an impact in the lives of Guardian Scholars – Make a gift online or by check.
To give by check, make all checks payable to “University Corporation SF State Guardian Scholars Program” and mail to:
San Francisco State University Office of University Development
1600 Holloway Avenue, ADM 153 San Francisco, CA 94132
SFSU’s Guardian Scholars Thriving
Due to a nationally recognized, evidence-based approach, the Guardian Scholars Program (GSP) at SFSU delivers exceptional student outcomes.
of students return to SFSU for their second year.
graduate within 6 years
Exceeds the national rate and surpassing foster youth averages.
of GSP students remain enrolled after 4+ years.
Contact us
Have questions about how to give? Contact us anytime.
Guardian Scholars Program
SFSU’s Guardian Scholars Program creates a vibrant and welcoming community with personalized services that help students who have been in the foster care system achieve academic success, connect to stable housing resources and prepare for meaningful career pathways.