The WithinReach Foundation was founded in 2014 with the belief that everyone deserves a chance at Higher Education. Students who come back to school fight against tremendous odds for self-betterment, and we are dedicated to making that process easier. We want to be sure they know they are not alone and that their hard work is recognized and rewarded.

Our organization provides full and partial scholarships to highly deserving and economically disadvantaged adult learners, who have passed the High School Equivalency exam and who don’t otherwise have the means to support themselves in their academic pursuits. In addition to the cost of tuition, we aspire to alleviate some of the financial strain associated with higher education – this may include the cost of books, transportation, or even childcare so that an applicant is able to attend school.

WithinReach has awarded scholarships to 17 people since 2015 and currently funds 9 students in Associate’s programs. Five of the WR recipients have completed their AA’s and have been accepted or started BA programs.  We have students who have moved on to City College, Brooklyn College, and even FIT.  The WRF continues to support these students with stipends and advisory services. Over 80% of scholarship recipients have maintained a 3.0 GPA, with the majority of those maintaining a GPA well over 3.5.

Recipients, without exception, have powerful stories to share and big dreams that they are working towards.  They want to be doctors, nurses, graphic designers, architects, and entrepreneurs. One recipient’s words: “I want to offer my children a better life and set a good example about working hard and to always dream big even when things feel and look impossible in life”. Another said: “Leaving my family and the place where I was born was one of the hardest things I have ever done…but being able to go to college to get an education and make my family proud has helped me to keep going…going to college is not just an education for me, but it is my happiness.”

WithinReach is proud to support these students and turn what looks “impossible” into an achievable goal that brings personal satisfaction and happiness, along with academic success and possibilities for a better future.

Every single dollar donated goes directly to scholarship recipients – all of our administrative work is done by volunteers.  Please join us in our mission and help us support underserved adult learners!  Every dollar counts.