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.
Experienced,
committed leadership
for under-resourced
students
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.
9,300+
Summer Searchers
and counting
since 1990
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.
99%
of the Class of 2024 earned high school diplomas.
60%
earned a Bachelor's Degree within
6 years
compared to 21% of their peers.
73%
are employed within
6 months
of earning their highest degree.
Summer Searchers graduate with less than
$20K
of debt.
* 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.
Experienced,
committed
leadership
Julian Perez
Senior Post-Secondary Mentor
Diane Pham
Post- Secondary Mentor | Bay Area
Skaina Pierre
High School Mentor
Valerie Polanco
Senior Director of Development
Darlene Reid
School and Community Engagement Manager | Boston
Nico Rubin
High School Mentor
Gee Salas
Senior Post-Secondary Program Manager | Bay Area
Adriana Salse
Senior Post-Secondary Mentor
Zavi Smith
Senior Program Manager
Carly Solberg
Outreach and Program Manager
Julia Staron
High School Mentor
Kiana Taylor
High School Mentor
Josue Theosmy
Senior High School Mentor
Jasmine Toussaint
Regional Program Director
Jen Tribbet
Senior Program Associate
Darlyne Vasquez
Post-Secondary Mentor
Kierra West
Post-Secondary Mentor
Orneno Wright-Threats
High School Mentor
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.