Trade School and College Scholarship Program

Your Donations Make Higher Education Dreams Come True

It is a great misfortune that less than half the youth in the foster care system graduate high school, and only about a 11 percent have the means to pursue higher education after that. However, the Mary Graham Children’s Shelter Foundation (MGCSF) College Scholarship and Mentor-Student Programs for foster youth are helping to change these odds by providing many bright, motivated young adults with a college education. MGCSF truly believes that all young adults deserve a chance to pursue their educational dreams. With the help of many generous supporters of the MGCSF College Scholarship Program, MGCSF turns this belief into real financial support for the foster youth in San Joaquin County who plan to attend college. !

Jessica's Story

Jessica Tacdol, now 21, was one of the first recipients of the MGCSF Scholarship four years ago, and this May, was one of the first to graduate from CSU Stanislaus through the support of MGCSF. Jessica’s story is one of survival, hard work, and success, and she truly represents the hope that these programs are all about.

Ms. Tacdol entered the foster care system at just 18 months old, and at age 10, she came to the Mary Graham Children’s Shelter for a few months. After many trying years and several placements, she was emancipated at age 18.

Defying all odds, Ms. Tacdol is now in her senior year, and last month of coursework, at CSU Stanislaus. She is pursuing a Liberal Studies major while working at the university’s Child Development Center and providing other childcare on the side. Next, she plans to pursue her credential at the CSU Stanislaus Stockton campus and go onto work as a high school counselor.

As an MGCSF Scholarship recipient, Jessica’s tuition and educational expenses are paid in full. “It’s more than just tuition though,” Tacdol says. “They bought me a computer to help with my schoolwork. They’ve given me gift certificates for groceries. They’ve helped with rent when financial aid didn’t cover it.” When a hardship arises, Jessica discusses her needs with her mentor who then presents her case to the Board. The MGCSF Mentor-Student Program, matches the Scholarship recipients with mentors who support them throughout their school career. “I like the mentorship they provide,” Ms. Tacdol says. “My mentor and I have gotten really close. They did a good job matching me with the right person.” The mentors help the students follow their academic plans and provide the motivational support they may need to keep pushing toward their ultimate goal. “They said I could do it, and now that I’m almost finished, it feels really good.” Our programs provide our students with an all-encompassing package that helps them achieve success. We are continually impressed by the positive outcomes of this program. After all, there is no better reward than seeing youth who have had such a challenging start go on to achieve educational dreams they never thought possible. Congratulations, Jessica. Your hard work is almost done, and we are so proud of you.

Want to be a part of this amazing program?

For more information on the scholarship program or to see if you qualify, please call Cynthia Herbert at (209) 468-1028 or Tilly Andrade at (209) 468-1039.