News Summary
Vanguard University in Costa Mesa has been awarded a $900,000 grant from the In-N-Out Burger Foundation to launch the Headwind Scholars program. This initiative aims to provide scholarships, resources, and support for former foster youth who have aged out of the system, ensuring their academic success and personal development. The program underscores the university’s commitment to helping vulnerable students overcome challenges and thrive in their educational journeys.
Costa Mesa: Vanguard University Awarded $900,000 Grant for Foster Youth Scholarship Program
Vanguard University in Costa Mesa has received a significant financial boost with a $900,000 grant from the In-N-Out Burger Foundation. This funding will be utilized to establish the Headwind Scholars program, a scholarship initiative aimed specifically at supporting former foster youth through financial assistance, academic resources, and essential support services.
The Headwind Scholars program is designed to provide critical aid to youth who have aged out of the foster care system, ensuring they receive the necessary tools for academic success and personal growth. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to empowering students who have faced significant challenges in their formative years, including abuse and neglect.
Michael J. Beals, president of Vanguard University, emphasized the long-term impact this grant will have on enhancing the educational journeys of these students, demonstrating the university’s dedication to fostering success among vulnerable groups. This support not only relieves financial burdens but also helps create a supportive academic environment where former foster youth can thrive.
About the In-N-Out Burger Foundation
The In-N-Out Burger Foundation operates with a mission to enhance the lives of children who have experienced difficult circumstances in their early lives. By funding educational opportunities like the Headwind Scholars program, the foundation aims to pave the way for brighter futures for these youths. Howard Booker, the executive director of the foundation, has reiterated their commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of these students.
Recent Developments in Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa has recently seen several noteworthy developments beyond the significant grant awarded to Vanguard University. On May 2, Eres, a high-end fashion brand, inaugurated its first California boutique at South Coast Plaza. This opening signals a growing interest and investment in the region’s retail landscape.
Additionally, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast launched a college and workforce hub at Cypress College, aiming to provide local youth with the necessary skills and resources for future career success.
In terms of administrative changes, Jessica Artinger was promoted to the position of director at the Orange Coast College Planetarium. Similarly, Jack Sun has been appointed as director of cardiovascular surgery at Hoag’s Jeffrey M. Carlton Heart & Vascular Institute, and Robert Kolek has taken on the role of chief financial officer at Insight Investments LLC in Costa Mesa.
Health services in the region are also expanding, with doctors Asad Shah and Timothy Lee joining the MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute at Saddleback Medical Center, ensuring enhanced cardiac care for the community.
Community Initiatives and Funding
In community outreach efforts, Tilly’s raised $130,000 during its 18th annual charity golf tournament for Tilly’s Life Center, while Make-A-Wish Orange County and the Inland Empire garnered $300,000 at their 10th annual It’s In The Bag Spring Fête. These fundraising efforts exemplify the community’s commitment to supporting local organizations that serve vulnerable populations.
Addtionally, Costa Mesa city leaders are in discussions regarding the allocation of nearly $1.1 million from anticipated federal community development block grants (CDBG), and an additional $2.1 million designated for housing rehabilitation projects. The city’s allocation from CDBG funding this year amounts to $907,261, with an extra $172,000 from unspent grants, bringing total utilization to just over $1.1 million.
The city staff has proposed funding strategies that support public facility improvements and code enforcement while setting aside $1.5 million for affordable housing projects, including the conversion of a Motel 6 into residential units, aiming to provide much-needed housing solutions for its residents.
As Costa Mesa continues to develop educational and community support programs, initiatives like the Headwind Scholars program highlight the city’s commitment to nurturing its most vulnerable populations, ensuring they have the opportunity to succeed.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Vanguard University Celebrates Graduation and New Initiative
Vanguard University Receives $900,000 Grant for Foster Youth Program
Irvine Celebrates Vanguard University’s Graduation Ceremony
Vanguard University Launches Headwind Scholars Program
Vanguard University Secures $900,000 Grant for Scholars Program
Vanguard University Receives $900,000 Grant for Foster Youth Scholarships
Vanguard University Launches Headwind Scholars Program for Foster Youth
Additional Resources
- LA Times: Costa Mesa Channels $3.2M in Federal Grants into Housing Initiatives
- Wikipedia: Foster Care
- Patch: Costa Mesa University Gets $900,000 Grant
- Google Search: Costa Mesa Vanguard University
- Mass Transit: City of Costa Mesa Receives $1.5 Million Grant
- Google Scholar: Costa Mesa grant funding
- OC Register: Costa Mesa Gets Free Money to Worsen Traffic
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Development
- LA Times: State Grants $29M to Convert Costa Mesa Travelodge
- Google News: Costa Mesa community initiatives
