Who We Are
Summer Search is a national nonprofit dedicated to igniting the potential of high school students from under-resourced communities.
Through long-term, fully funded support—including professional mentorship and transformative experiential learning—we equip young people with the skills, confidence, and networks to navigate life’s challenges, pursue higher education and career opportunities, and lead lives of purpose.
How We Make A Difference
Through professional mentorship and hands-on outdoor and experiential learning opportunities, we are closing the educational inequity and opportunity gap by empowering young people to lead lives of purpose and chart their own path to success.
Our Mission
Summer Search ignites students’ potential through mentoring and transformative experiences.
Our Vision
We envision a world where all young people, regardless of circumstances, have the opportunity to thrive and lead a life of purpose.
See our Impact
Each year, we grow together in reach, outcomes, and community.
Check out the milestones Summer Searchers are reaching and see the latest in our Annual Report and alumni survey.
of the Class of 2024 earned high school diplomas.
earned a Bachelor's Degree within
compared to 21% of their peers.
are employed within
of earning their highest degree.
Summer Searchers graduate with less than
* Compared to average borrowers between the ages of 25-34 years with an average debt of $33,260
We’re always looking for passionate people who believe in the power of transforming students into young leaders.
If you’re ready to make an impact as part of our team while growing alongside a mission-driven program — we’d love to hear from you.
Our People
Behind every student is a dedicated team of staff, mentors, and community partners who believe in their potential and work tirelessly to provide the support they need to succeed.
Julia Barbano
Program Coordinator
Eli Barnard
Donor Relations Manager | Bay Area
Sonemani Bitna
Senior Program Associate
Liz Carey
Senior Program Associate
Jose Carrasco
Outreach and Program Manager
Angela Chen
Director of Development, Bay Area
Amanda Cho
Senior Summer Programs Manager
Kenyon DeVault
Executive Director
Austin Lim
Post-Secondary Program Coordinator
Reyana Maguad
Summer Program Coordinator
Melany Cortes Mederos
Post-Secondary Program Coordinator
Brian Mertens
Regional Program Director
Nancy Polio
Director of Regional Operations
Gee Salas
Senior Post-Secondary Program Manager | Bay Area
Jocelyn Sanchez
Senior Post-Secondary Success Coordinator
Zavi Smith
Senior Program Manager
Carly Solberg
Program Coordinator
Jen Tribbet
Senior Program Associate
For Students
& Families
Learn more about how our program builds bright futures for students.
Become a Donor
Join us in creating lasting change helping students thrive and lead with purpose.
Partner with us
Make an impact for the next generation of community leaders with experience and opportunities that lead to success.