The path out of poverty begins when Christian leaders receive mentoring and a great education.
Ascending Lights provides community college scholarships, financial support, and one-on-one mentoring to students who are committed to strengthening their communities through volunteer leadership roles in urban churches.
We work with church pastors in underserved, urban communities throughout greater Los Angeles to identify candidates for our program who demonstrate an authentic Christian faith and strong leadership skills.
"Ascending Lights recognizes the power of education, spirituality, and service. It transforms lives, families, communities, and society."
— Dr. Yolanda Brown
We cover all of the costs for our students to obtain Associate’s degrees at community colleges. We pay for tuition, tutoring, transportation, books and supplies, meals while at school, counseling, computers, and special needs. We cover all the costs necessary for our students to transfer to 4-year universities with junior standing.
Our students receive one-on-one mentoring by a staff member who meets weekly with each enrolled student. Mentors assist students with through tutoring, test preparation, essay writing, and the monitoring of grades. Any obstacles that might affect a student's academic performance are identified.
Students also receive college level training in leadership, life skills coaching, and spiritual development in accordance with their church and faith tradition. Our students have served as volunteer leaders behind more than 60 church-based anti-poverty initiatives throughout greater Los Angeles.
We teach our students, as well as members of other nonprofit organizations, how to effectively mentor community college students. Participants attending our iGraduate seminars learn how to help others to choose appropriate careers, enroll in community college, obtain financial aid, and prepare a detailed educational plan.
"Ascending Lights made an exponential impact on my community, reaching from me, to the students I serve, to the streets. Your investment is a resource my community now and forever will have."
- Byron Apen, Graduate
Our work depends on the generosity of individuals, foundations, and church partners from diverse racial, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Applying is Simple.
Step 1: Students are identified by pastors.
Step 2: Pastors apply on behalf of students.
Step 3: Students are interviewed.
Step 4: Scholarships are awarded.
