Welcome to 2026 and an exciting milestone for Ready to Succeed!

‍This month, RTS is turning 10 years old. Can you believe it?! What began with just six Scholars in 2016 has grown into a community of 400+ Scholars and Alumni today. That kind of growth is only possible because you believed in what RTS could become.

‍We also have a special announcement to share. Keep reading to learn more!

‍As we celebrate a new year and a big milestone, we know there’s still important work ahead. The job market is increasingly challenging for new graduates, especially for former foster youth.

‍That’s why your support matters now more than ever. In 2026, you’ll continue helping Scholars build the skills, confidence, and experience they need to launch their careers.

Save the Date: Ready to Succeed's 10th Birthday

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Get ready to celebrate!Ready to Succeed’s 10th Birthday Celebration is coming up later this year on:

September 26, 2026

‍Mark your calendar and stay tuned!

You Raised Over $40,000 for Former Foster Youth

Because of supporters like you, our end-of-year campaign was a huge success.

Thanks to your generosity — and the $25,000 matching opportunity — you helped raise over $50,000 to support former foster youth on the path to graduation and career success.

That support means Scholars like Olivia can access what they need to thrive, including:

• Consistent 1:1 advising and goal-setting support
• Career-building workshops and professional development
• Mental health resources
• Guidance and tools to prepare for life after college

National Mentoring Month

Speaking of Olivia, and in honor of National Mentoring Month, watch this special video featuring Olivia and one of our supporters, Wynton. Through their mentoring relationship, Wynton helped Olivia refine her portfolio, which led her to become a finalist for the Television Academy Foundation’s Spring 2025 Internship Program.

RTS to Host First-Ever Women's Month Leadership Brunch on 3/21

In honor of Women’s Month, Ready to Succeed is proud to host its first-ever women’s leadership event, Defining Ourselves: Stories of Women Who Lead, on Saturday, March 21 from 11am - 1pm in Beverly Hills.

This intimate brunch gathering will bring together women-identifying RTS Scholars, Alumni, and accomplished women leaders for a morning of connection, reflection, and inspiration. Through guided networking and a dynamic storytelling panel, scholars will hear honest perspectives on leadership, confidence, and redefining success on their own terms.

Interested in participating, mentoring, or supporting this event? Email Candice, candice@readytosucceedla.org, to learn more, get involved, or be added to the guest list. Watch your email for more information!

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Thank you for your continued support of college-going foster youth this upcoming year. You are truly changing lives.

With Love,