REACH's inspiring testaments of impact and gratitude from the hearts we've touched. Our community speaks for the change we create together.
"Given this opportunity to have someone be willing to help seniors has been a blessing. Overall, knowing that my senior year was being helped and sponsored helped me tremendously with getting my senior fees paid such as my cap and gown to graduate. I was not sure what I was going to do my senior year after some family matters occurred. Knowing that we have alumni that are willing to give back to seniors because they may have similar things that had happened to them. Makes me feel blessed and thankful. I know that one day, if I'm able to give back, I will just as the alumni did."
-2023 Ryan Underwood Serfas Scholarship RecipientCascade High School
"I donated because by my senior year I was on my own working a full-time job on night shift, paying my own bills, and graduation expenses. So, I understand how stressful it can be to worry about how are going to be paid."
-Lauren GlascoeDonor
"The donations give the Seniors who have not been able to afford their graduation fees the chance to get their cap and gown with the rest of their classmates."
-BookkeeperCascade High School
"There was a Senior who wasn't going to purchase their cap and gown because this student's caregivers didn't have the means to buy the cap and gown. The student decided not to attend graduation. However, with the donation, the student was able to attend graduation. "
-CounselorCentral High School
"I measured the young man today, and shared with him that a graduation angel was purchasing his cap and gown. The young man was thrilled and shared that him and his mom had been saving up to buy the cap and gown."
-Graduation CoachCommunity High School
When you learned about the scholarship. What were your thoughts? “Thank you, Jesus!”
-24/25 Cascade TRUSS Recipient’s ParentCascade High School
This scholarship has meant so much to both me and my mom. It allowed me to go through my senior year without the constant worry of how I would afford the things I needed or the experiences that would make this year unforgettable. My mom has always worked hard and struggled to keep up with bills while supporting me and my siblings through school. This scholarship lifted a huge weight off her shoulders, and for that, I am incredibly grateful. Thank you for giving me this opportunity. I just want to say that you’ve truly made my last year unforgettable. The little girl in me, the one who once had to secretly sell her own things just to fit in, is overjoyed knowing that there are people out there who see her and are willing to help. Thank you. Thank you for helping me and my mom, for seeing me, and for seeing all the other kids you’ve helped and continue to help. Your support isn’t just about covering the cost of things; it’s a reminder that the world isn’t always such a hard place. It’s a reminder that there’s kindness out there.
– 24/25 Community TRUSS RecipientCommunity High School
We were so grateful to have been awarded the scholarship. We were able to get the things needed in a timely manner for a smooth senior year!
– 24/25 Community TRUSS Recipient’s ParentCommunity High School
This is a great organization that supports students in need.
– Mrs. RichNo child should have to miss out on this milestone in life because of the cost. Thank you, Ryan, for always caring and trying to help families struggling.
– Brie A.I graduated from Cascade High School in 2008. Growing up, I watched how the community operated. Overall, it was caring, considerate, and kind. I love how that spirit has expanded into the REACH program by bidding students farewell with an act of kindness. They deserve to end their high school education stress free. They deserve to enjoy their senior activities and their walk across the stage. I am happy that I get to be a little bit of help it that.
- Meghan C.I think this is a wonderful program you started. As someone who could not afford their cap, gown or dues for senior year, this program would have been beneficial.
- Amanda B.Incredibly proud of the work REACH does and continues to do. It may seem small to some, but it creates a lasting impact on these young people, removing a barrier for them!
- Regina W.I love what you all are doing! You all are changing lives and inspiring others as well. Keep up the great work and I will always help where I can!
– Eli GarciaI remember as a single mom having to pay out so much during senior year and not always being able to, but through family & friends it was made it possible. I will always help another family enjoy this special time.
– Tina H.I love your mission. Every senior should enjoy every moment of their senior year, worry-free. So glad it was laid on your heart to do this! I’m a proud Cascade alumna, and I’m honored to be able to help someone.
– Shavon D.