Strives to achieve educational equity and support students from low-income backgrounds to and through college, helping them realize their full potential and positively impact their communities.

From the nominator: “As a student, 10,000 Degrees helped me navigate the college application process and continued to support me throughout college to graduation. Their mentorship and scholarship programs were essential to my education, allowing me to graduate debt free, providing a supportive network, and helping me develop important skills.”

—Erick Tinajero, senior, Sacramento

Learn more about 10,000 Degrees.

Gives students access to interest-free loans for higher education and an opportunity to better themselves without having to compromise their way of life. Primarily focused on supporting individuals and families within the Muslim community yet offers services to everyone regardless of faith or background.

From the nominator: “As a graduate student, I was ineligible for any financial aid and the only way to support my education was through high-interest loans from banks. I received an interest-free loan from ACC which helped me achieve my dream of higher education and led to a stable career and life without adding a financial burden.”

—Fatima Syed, staff, Silicon Valley

Learn more about A Continuous Charity.

Works to end Alzheimer's and all other forms of dementia by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support.

From the nominator: “I’m a member of the Alzheimer's Association’s accounting industry leadership council. I have participated in and fundraiser for the local ‘Walk to End Alzheimer's’ event in Denver for several years. I’ve been a longtime supporter of the organization but have recently become more passionate about their mission as my father is currently living with Alzheimer's.”

—Megan Hodgins, senior manager, Denver

Learn more about the Alzheimer's Association.

Supports those affected by suicide, including survivors and affected families, through a nationwide community empowered by research, education, and advocacy.

From the nominator: “This organization resonates deeply with me as I lost my dad to suicide at a young age. His passing has shaped my story and who I am today. Through AFSP, I have found a community that understands the pain of loss and the struggles that many face. Joining this movement has allowed me to honor my dad’s memory while also advocating for mental health awareness and suicide prevention. I’m grateful for the work AFSP does to educate, support, and provide resources to those in need.”

—Ashleigh Tiedeman, executive assistant, Denver

Learn more about the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Partners with young people, families, and the community to break the cycle of homelessness through outreach, housing, prevention, education, and employment.

From the nominator: “I have been closely tied with Cocoon House since starting at Moss Adams and my cousin benefited from some of their services more than 15 years ago when she was in the foster care system. We’ve coordinated drives, monthly charity campaigns, volunteered time, and sponsored this organization.”

—Kristi Moore, senior executive assistant, Everett

Learn more about Cocoon House.

Provides financial support to families of children diagnosed with sickle cell disease and are undergoing a bone marrow transplant, a stem cell transplant, or hospitalization due to a sickle cell crisis. This health issue largely, if not exclusively, affects individuals who are Black or African American.

From the nominator: “I met the parents of Luc, who shared his story with me. I was moved and inspired by how they committed the rest of their lives to raising funds to support other families experiencing similar struggles with their children. I’ve attended their annual kickball tournament fundraiser and met supporters including community members, doctors who treated Luc, and more. The way they’ve mobilized their community to support families dealing with sickle disease is remarkable and a reminder to be the change we want to see.”

—Cherie Williams, manager, El Segundo

Learn more about the Luc Strong Foundation.

Leads a survivor-centered justice and equity-driven movement to end human trafficking.

From the nominator: “Where I grew up, I saw firsthand how my parents and other adults were extra protective of their kids as they were concerned about child abductions, which happened too frequently. I've been donating to Polaris for more than 10 years because they not only rescue victims of human trafficking but also help them integrate back into society by providing mental health support, education, and assistance with job opportunities. They help victims reconnect with the world and help them feel human again. They also provide us resources to help raise awareness and identify signs or indicators of human trafficking.”

—Anita Shah, partner, San Diego

Learn more about Polaris Project.

Promotes and supports the development of a safe, strong community free from substance use disorders, racism, and violence by promoting youth development, building protective factors, and enhancing resiliency through positive healthy relationships with peers and adults.

From the nominator: “We lost my brother when he was 15 due to a car accident where the driver of the vehicle was a teen under the influence of alcohol. In honor of his memory, we support this organization with the hope of preventing other families from having to go through the pain and loss we did.”

—Amy Sutherland, director, Seattle

Learn more about Shasta County Chemical People.

Builds collaborative relationships within public education to create access to transformative systems of learning for students and teachers of color to eliminate race-based disparities in an increasingly diverse society.

From the nominator: “During college, I had the opportunity to work for Technology Access Foundation as both an accounting intern and staff. They’re dedicated to promoting social equity and education by leveraging technology as a tool for empowerment. This aligns closely with my personal belief that access to high-quality public education is crucial to the development of youth facing socioeconomic challenges.”

—Hannah Tittel, staff, Seattle

Learn more about the Technology Access Foundation.

Supports youth through stable homes and supportive services, striving to ensure every young person has a loving home and the ability to realize their greatest potential as contributing members of their community.

From the nominator: “My family and I have been involved with Walden Family Services for as long as I can remember. I initially became involved by assisting them with a tax matter and my wife has been a passionate supporter and long-time volunteer board member, helping with fundraising and strategies for delivering services to foster youth.”

—James Levinson, managing director, San Diego

Learn more about Walden Family Services.