As 2025 comes to a close, we thank you for being part of the Fulfillment Fund community. Because of your support, students from under-resourced communities across Los Angeles are getting into college, through college, and on the path to meaningful careers. 

This year, more than 4,500 students were supported through our college access, college success, and career readiness programs. 92% of our high school graduates enrolled in college and 84% of our college students graduated within six years, far surpassing the LAUSD averages.

Students took meaningful steps toward their goals with Fulfillment Fund’s hands-on support every step of the way. Our high school college access counselors helped students submit 1,700+ college applications across UC, Cal State, and private institutions, and guided them through financial aid processes that resulted in $5.3 million in debt-free aid and $650,000 in scholarships. Through experiences like our Northern California College Tour, 45 students explored seven campuses—including Stanford and UC Berkeley—broadening their vision of what’s possible. 

Once in college, students continued to receive critical support. Fulfillment Fund University equipped more than 100 incoming freshmen with the tools and confidence to transition successfully into college life. As students moved closer to the workforce, our Career Expo connected 186 students and alumni with 16 industry professionals, and 91.5% of participants reported feeling more confident about their next career steps. 

We also celebrated important milestones as an organization. This year, we launched our 2025 - 2028 Grow with C.A.R.E. Strategic Plan, which will guide our next phase of impact by strengthening career readiness, alumni leadership, and partnerships. We welcomed new staff members who bring fresh energy and deep commitment to our mission, including PJ Lutz, our Manager of Community Engagement & Partnerships, who is expanding alumni engagement, partnerships, and volunteer opportunities. In addition, we were proud to welcome David S. Lee, Retired Partner, The Capital Group Companies, and Peter Bergren, Chief Financial Officer and Partner, Empyrean Capital Partners, to our Board of Directors. Their leadership will help guide our work forward. 

Our community came together in powerful ways, including at our annual Sip & Celebrate gala, where we raised an incredible $1.3 million to support students and proudly honored our board member Brian Werdesheim for his more than 20 years of mentorship, leadership, and unwavering commitment to Fulfillment Fund students. Moments like these remind us that when a community rallies around students, extraordinary things happen. 

As we look ahead to 2026, we remain committed to walking alongside students, ensuring they have the tools, guidance, and opportunities they need to thrive. 

Wishing you a new year filled with joy, hope, and possibility. 

With gratitude,

The Fulfillment Fund Team