Supporting Organizations
Alumni Association
The College of the Desert Alumni Association, a nonprofit chartered in 1983, was established to enhance the success of College of the Desert students and enrich the campus environment. The Association provides financial assistance for student programs and scholarships with funds raised from the popular Street Fair. For more information, please contact the Alumni Association at 760.636.7957 or email byoung@collegeofthedesert.edu.
College of the Desert Foundation
The College of the Desert Foundation is a dedicated nonprofit organization with a vital mission: to secure financial support from both the private and public sectors, ensuring that essential programs and facilities at the College are fully funded—especially those that cannot be covered by state budgets. The Foundation is driven by a dynamic Board and Committees of passionate community leaders who volunteer their time and expertise to address both the immediate and long-term needs of our students and the Coachella Valley. Through strategic partnerships and initiatives, the Foundation is able to empower College of the Desert to fulfill its mission of providing high-quality education for all.
The Foundation’s giving programs include:
The Fund for Student Success
Your contribution to the Fund for Student Success directly fuels the College of the Desert Foundation's ability to meet the urgent needs of our students. This fund provides critical support to ensure that students can continue their education, pursue meaningful careers, and thrive academically—no matter the challenges they face.
The Fund for Student Success plays a pivotal role in removing barriers and promoting student achievement. From providing textbooks, transportation, assisting food-insecure students, offering regalia for graduates and funding childcare services for student parents, your gift makes a tangible impact. It also supports vital services for Veterans and helps meet the basic needs of our most vulnerable student populations.
By supporting the Fund for Student Success, you are helping ensure that every student at College of the Desert has access to the resources they need to succeed. Every contribution—no matter the size—helps build a brighter future for our students and strengthens the quality of education they receive. Together, we can create lasting change and change lives.
The President’s Circle
The President’s Circle is an exclusive community of visionary leaders dedicated to making a transformative impact at College of the Desert. Members of this prestigious group join the College Superintendent/President and Foundation leaders in driving forward the institution’s most critical initiatives, shaping the future of higher education in the Coachella Valley. With gifts ranging from $1,000 to $25,000, President’s Circle members are recognized for their exceptional commitment to advancing the College’s mission and supporting its students' success.
Legacy Leaders
The Legacy Society honors those extraordinary individuals whose foresight and generosity ensure a lasting impact on the future of College of the Desert. Members of the Legacy Society have committed to the College’s enduring success through thoughtful estate plans, including gifts via rollover IRAs, life insurance, charitable gift annuities, and gift trusts. These visionary donors are shaping the College’s legacy and empowering future generations of students.
Scholarship and Program Endowments
Gifts of $50,000 or more provide the opportunity to establish enduring endowed scholarships and funds, ensuring lasting support for students and vital programs across the College. These generous contributions help empower future leaders, enhance academic opportunities, and sustain the College’s mission for years to come.
Space Naming Opportunities
Honor your legacy with a unique opportunity to name classrooms, labs, buildings, or outdoor spaces across the College. Available for both newly constructed and renovated areas, as well as existing spaces, these naming opportunities allow you to leave an enduring mark on the campus while supporting the College’s continued growth and excellence.
Academic Angels
Academic Angels is a distinguished committee of the Foundation, dedicated to championing the mission of College of the Desert and helping advance its goals. As ambassadors of goodwill, members play a key role in supporting the College through hosting engaging luncheons, events, and inspiring guest speakers. They are also proud supporters of Learning to Lead, a transformative leadership development program designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders in the Coachella Valley. By raising funds for scholarships and vital College programs, Academic Angels directly empower students and shape the future of our community.
Donations of any size are deeply appreciated and can be directed to specific departments, projects, or initiatives. To learn more about how you can make a lasting impact, please call 760.773.2561 or visit codfoundation.org.
