Tuesday, December 1 marks a global day of generosity that unites people around the world to support the causes they care about most and help non-profit organizations fund their future.

TGR Foundation joins the celebration as it approaches its 25th year anniversary, a new TGR Learning Lab at the Carol Kimmelman Academic and Athletic Campus in Los Angeles and expansion of its programs to reach millions of youth around the world. The foundation helps students explore pathways to career success through its signature STEM curricula, college preparation programs and educator development workshops.

Coming from a first-generation Mexican-American household, college was a pathway to upward social mobility and the American Dream. Even though it was highly encouraged, I never really knew how the college process worked. The only thing I knew was that I had to study hard, get involved and never give up – three core principles I truly believe have allowed me to be where I am today. 

I would be lying if I said my path to college was easy. It was challenging. As I connected with my friends, Gabriella Henry and Gustavo Aguilar from Katella High School, who also attend UC Berkeley, we noticed that there was a common trend in our community – a lack of resources and college assistance – and we felt that it needed to be addressed. We knew that we wanted to give back to our community and help students navigate the college process.

Since earning a Bachelor of Arts in economics, Earl Woods Scholar alumnus Anthony “Tony” Armas is climbing the ladder of his career in financial services. Currently a Senior Specialist at Public Agency Retirement Services, he uses his experiences as a scholar and professional to pay it forward. In the spirit of Giving Tuesday TGR Foundation shines a spotlight on Tony, an unrelenting champion who is supporting other students on their pathways forward and building a circle of impact.

Every year we welcome a new cohort of Earl Woods Scholars into our fold – a group of dynamic, civic-minded and high-achieving students representing the best and brightest from their communities. This year was no different. While COVID-19 prevented the Class of 2024 scholars from coming together for our annual pre-college retreat, hosted at our flagship TGR Learning Lab in Anaheim, Ca., they’ve had ample opportunities to connect virtually with one another and our dedicated college-access team.

As we welcome our new cohort of 21 Earl Woods Scholars, we hear from them, in their own words, who they are and what motivates them.

Highlighting the contributions to the TGR Learning Lab’s Player Development Program for more than 12 years, TGR Foundation recognizes the ongoing contributions and partnership of the LA84 Foundation.  

Led by Renata Simril, President and CEO, the LA84 Foundation and its sister charity The Play Equity Fund has impacted more than three million youth and their families over the last 30 years and continues to create opportunities, build positive youth development and transform lives through sports. With increased focus on the challenges of COVID-19 and the pursuit of social justice, the LA84 Foundation and the Play Equity Fund expanded its goals in 2020.