Support. Equity. Success.

Our Programs

Our High Hopes Scholarship Programs help Berkeley public school graduates flourish in college and beyond.

Our Impact

BCS High Hopes Scholars graduate at 5x the national rate of their peers.

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Become A Mentor

Mentor a High Hopes Scholar during their college journey.

Our Mission

Berkeley Community Scholars empowers Berkeley youth who face racial, economic, and other barriers to achieving their college dreams by providing a unique experience of scholarships, advising, mentoring, and a community of support.

Apply to Our Programs

Our three programs support Berkeley public high school students attending universities or community college with the intention of transferring to bachelors degree institutions.

Support Our Programs

Donations to our organization help us provide a powerful combination of financial assistance and mentoring—closing the opportunity gap for students in our community.

News & Announcements

  • Celebrating Lynn Walker’s Impact

In July 2014, Lynn joined the BCS team, working alongside then-executive director Joleen Eeson Ruffin and took on the role of providing support for our scholars. She has always been a ferocious advocate for our scholars. Whether it’s a call for help in selecting courses, deciding on majors, navigating relationships with professors, roommates, or friends,…

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  • What we’re grateful for

Last week, amid all the uncertainty and chaos, we decided to pause and do something simple: share what we’re grateful for. Our team held a potluck and took some time to reflect on what we’re truly grateful for—the moments, the people, and the small wins that remind us why this work matters. We wanted to…

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  • Summer Picnic 2025

BCS knows how to throw a picnic! Our annual summer gathering this July at the Berkeley Marina was everything! A little food, some friendly competition, and the gorgeous views of the water created the perfect location for connection and celebration. It’s really all about good company. BCS scholars, their families, alumni, mentors, and staff are…

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