The Robert and Margie Petersen Scholarship Endowment for Transition Age Foster Youth was established in late 2021 to provide financial support for Transitional Age Foster Youth (or TAY) pursuing career and technical education/vocational training in the Pasadena and Los Angeles regions.
Based on extensive research and community collaboration, the Petersen Scholars Program leverages education advocates, opportunities for mentorship, and specialized financial support, all designed to help TAY remain in college, achieve their educational aspirations, and establish professional careers.
Addressing Funding Gaps and Local Need
Launched in 2022 with the support of community nonprofit and college partners, the Petersen Scholars Program works to remove the typical obstacles encountered by transition age foster youth as they pursue their education. Despite financial aid and free tuition at community colleges, significant funding gaps persist for this population, leading to low rates of college completion. Program participants will receive annual support for two years to help deficits in funding.
