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.
Antoine Andrews
National Board Member
David Bonn
National Board Member
Erik C. Christoffersen
National Board Member
Joe Darza
National Board Member, Seattle Board Member, Summer Search Alumnus
Jeff Dorigan
National & Boston Board Member
Suzanne Eberhard
National & Seattle Board Member
KishaLynn Elliott
National Board Member, Summer Search Alumna
Dana M. Emery
National Board Member
Ellen Fair
National Board Member
Teke Kelley
National Board Chair
Brian Kinney
Boston Board Chair
Jean Lee
National & Seattle Board Member
Pamela Lehrer
Philadelphia Board Chair
Bibiana Leite
National Board Member
Christina MacDonald
Seattle Board Chair
Robert Okun
National Board Member
Jean-Marie Painvin
NY & National Board Member
Marie Pierre
Bay Area Vice Chair, National Board Member, Summer Search Alumna
Jeff Shames
National Board Member
Saad Siddiqui
NYC Board Chair
Diana S. Strandberg
National Board Member
Graves Tompkins
National & NY Board Member
Amber Williams
National Board Member
For Students
& Families
Learn more about how our program builds bright futures for students.
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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.