Fellows during their ropes course orientation. Photos courtesy Raúl Aguilera.
REACH continues supporting its current cohorts and expands its newest cohort to 60 Fellows.
SANTA BARBARA — REACH, a leading organization dedicated to empowering first-generation, low- to mid-income students in Santa Barbara County, proudly announces its largest cohort to date. With 60 Fellows, their Cohort 2025 (Class of 2026) reflects REACH’s commitment to transforming lives through academic preparation, outdoor experiences, and personal development.
Fellows and Parents during a financial literacy workshop.
This milestone marks a significant expansion from 45 to 60 students per cohort that began in the Fall of 2023, all supported by a dedicated team of just four staff members. REACH provides programming at no cost to participants, funded through the generosity of the Audacious Foundation.
The new cohort embodies REACH’s mission:
- 87% First-Generation: Fellows are the first in their families to attend college.
- Dedication to Learning and Growth: Fellows maintain an average high school GPA of 3.76.
- 82% Financial Need: Fellows receive state or federal benefits.
- Diverse Representation: Fellows are from across Santa Barbara County, with 31 from the Santa Maria and Lompoc areas (North County) and 29 from Carpinteria, Santa Barbara, and Goleta (South County).
Fellows after their ropes course orientation.
“Our Fellows are exceptional young leaders, and their achievements remind us why this work is so important,” said Raúl Aguilera, Executive Director of REACH. “This expansion shows the growing demand for our program and the need for continued support from our community.”
Over their 2.5-year journey, Fellows engage in a transformative experience, including:
- Academic Preparation: SAT prep, college and career readiness workshops, immersive college tours, college and financial aid application assistance, and mentorship.
- Outdoor Experiences: Overnight camping, backpacking, rock-climbing, and cultural immersions in Bolivia and Guatemala, to name a few.
- Personal Development: Leadership training, financial literacy, college success strategies, and health and wellness workshops that include nutrition and cooking classes, social-emotional learning, and problem-solving skills.
REACH supports 155 Fellows annually, with 86% identifying as first-generation students, an increase of 120 students from previous years.
REACH’s work is only possible through the generosity of donors. Your support enables us to continue providing life-changing opportunities.
How You Can Help
- Volunteer: Join us during our workshops that vary from applying to college to cooking and outdoor trips.
- Make a Donation: If REACH is your calling, join us financially!
- Online: Visit reachfellowship.org to contribute.
- By Check: Send donations to REACH, 1117 State St #78, Santa Barbara, CA 93101.
Together, we can support students REACH New Heights.
About REACH
REACH provides transformative support and development opportunities to first-generation students as they navigate the transition from high school to postsecondary education. The program offers a unique blend of programming focused on academic preparation, outdoor experiences, and personal development, helping students cultivate their leadership skills, foster meaningful relationships, and engage in experiences essential for their path from school to a fulfilling career.
If you want to learn more, get involved, or donate, please visit our website at www.reachfellowship.org or contact Raúl Aguilera at 805-467-8510 or raul@myreachnetwork.org