Message to Supporters

This summer, many nonprofits across Washington were hit with devastating budget cuts after the state legislature was forced to make the difficult decision to reduce spending. College Success Foundation was among those impacted.

In response, CSF went through significant restructuring to ensure we can continue to step up and do what we do best — helping low-income youth across our state access and succeed in college. We remain steadfast in our mission to support students on their path to higher education. And as we start the new school year, now is the time to lift our young people up, not let them down.

Over the next year, we will support more than 10,000 high school and college students with the guidance and resources they need to stay on track toward college and career success.

Our college access work continues in high schools in South King County, Spokane, Tacoma, Yakima, and on the Olympic Peninsula, where CSF advisors will guide students through college readiness, career exploration and the complex processes of applying for college and financial aid.

One of our most urgent priorities is helping students successfully transition from two-year to four-year institutions. While more students are beginning their higher education journeys at two-year colleges, only about one-third earn a 2-year degree. To help address this, CSF coaches will be on campuses at Highline College, Tacoma Community College, Peninsula College and Yakima Valley College. And, every CSF Scholar who attends any college in our state will have access to coaching services.

We’re also changing how we leverage technology. Unlike many who see AI as a cost-cutting tool, we will be piloting AI advising tools so staff can spend more time with students. Because it isn’t algorithms that keep students on track — it’s relationships, mentorship and guidance.

Community support will continue to be essential. Thank you for standing with us as we begin another year of opening doors, breaking barriers and creating pathways to success for CSF Scholars. Together, we can ensure more students not only get to college, but also through it.

With gratitude,

Mike Cheever
President & CEO