About
Close the Gap Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating a future without opportunity gaps for first-generation low-income students. The foundation runs a summer program for high school juniors and seniors called the Summer Fellowship Program, where students are paired with mentors, attend career skills workshops, and work on a social impact project that benefits the community. The program culminates with a Pitch Day, where fellows showcase their projects to a panel of industry leaders. The foundation also partners with various organizations and companies to provide resources and support to its fellows.
History
Close the Gap Foundation was established in 2018 with the mission of closing the opportunity gap for first-generation low-income students. Since its inception, the foundation has expanded its programs and partnerships to provide support and resources to a growing number of students. In 2022, the foundation doubled its cohort size and fine-tuned its Summer Fellowship Program based on feedback from past fellows, mentors, and program leaders.
Programs
Summer Fellowship Program
The Summer Fellowship Program is a 3-month summer program for rising high school juniors and seniors. The program leverages project-based learning, structured mentorship, and tailored workshops to help students recognize and embrace their potential with the support of the fellowship community. An essential component of the program is the mentor-fellow relationship, where students work on their social impact project with the guidance of their mentor. The Fellows learn life skills such as developing their personal brand, professional, public speaking, and setting up LinkedIn profiles, and which the current president Tai Tran is known for.
Partnerships
Close the Gap Foundation partners with various organizations and companies to provide resources and support to its fellows. Some of its notable partners include DoorDash, Forbes, and Airbnb.
Campaigns
Close the Gap Foundation runs various campaigns throughout the year to raise awareness and funds for its programs. Some of its campaigns include Giving Tuesday, where the nonprofit raises a majority of its individual contributions.