The goal of the Youth program is to increase the number
of low-income youth in California who complete high
school on time and attain a postsecondary credential by
the age of 25.

Multiple pathways to college and career

Income and education are more closely linked now than ever before. Yet far too many of California's young people — particularly low-income, minority and immigrant youth — reach adulthood without the education, credentials and experiences needed to participate in the new economy. Nearly one-third of California high school students drop out of school, and another third graduate unprepared for the demands of postsecondary education or the workplace.

To close the gap in academic achievement, we believe that young people must be offered different ways of getting to the same destination: success in high school, college and careers. We see the need for a "multiple pathways" approach that recognizes the diversity of student interests and abilities, and engages students in academically rigorous work by demonstrating its relevance to the real world.

Irvine’s Youth program addresses the needs of youth aged 14 to 24 who often are left to navigate significant educational and life transitions with little guidance and few clear options. Within this age range, the Foundation focuses on youth whose life circumstances further diminish their opportunities.

The Youth program rests on the premise that all young people — regardless of background or economic circumstance — deserve access to a rigorous and relevant educational experience that will ensure their success in the workplace and their contribution as engaged citizens. We are committed to increasing the chances that they will create and share in the state’s prosperity.