Philanthropy in Action

Give Students the Basic Needs to Succeed

by | Jan 1, 2023 | Philanthropy in Action

80% of COD’s Students are Either the First in their Family or the First Generation in their Family to Go to College.

Since the onset of the pandemic, many of our students have lost their jobs, housing and financial security. Soaring food, gasoline and housing prices add mounting pressure. They remain faced with a grim reality: pursue their education or pay for utilities, rent, gas or groceries. Our Valley’s business owners are desperate for trained workers, yet our students navigate multiple jobs, battle inflation and struggle to regain years of lost revenue – all while juggling childcare and striving to complete their degree. In too many cases, they will relinquish their dreams of building a career and a better life.

While tuition remains low at community colleges, non-tuition costs make up the majority of student expenses. Combined with California’s higher cost of living, students are experiencing significant financial barriers to college completion. Your donation to the Fund for Student Success will enable thousands of low-income students to complete their studies because they have their essential basic needs met and can begin their climb up the economic ladder.

“Many community college students have difficulty affording basic needs such as food, shelter, clothing and childcare. Community colleges provide equal opportunity to pursue high quality education without incurring crushing debt. We believe education is the key to preserving our democracy and hope others will join in supporting community colleges across the country.”

DAN PRITZKER, PRESIDENT OF THE JAY PRITZKER FOUNDATION
GIFTED $100 MILLION TO THE FOUNDATION FOR CALIFORNIA COMMUNITY COLLEGES BENEFITING 34 STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGES.

When we provide comprehensive access to education, we produce a professional workforce to strengthen our Valley’s social and economic infrastructure. We believe that no student should miss out on a class or find they are unable to complete an assignment due to a lack of supplies, books or equipment.

You too can Empower COD Students to Spread Their Wings. Call 760.773.2561, email Cabbott@CollegeoftheDesert.edu or scan the QR code to pledge online.

You May Also Like…

From Needs to Degrees

From Needs to Degrees

COD Foundation’s Transformative Role Through the Fund for Student Success I am personally thrilled by our growing...

$1 MILLION+ Awarded in Scholarships
in 2024 - 2025

Your gift helps students achieve their dreams and build brighter futures. Make a donation to the College of the Desert Foundation today.

Latest News

State of the College

State of the College

The College of the Desert Foundation invites you to an evening of vision, innovation, and community at this year’s State of the College 2025, themed Integrating AI in Education and Beyond. Join us on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at the stunning Thompson Palm Springs...

read more
Stepping Out for COD 2026

Stepping Out for COD 2026

College of the Desert Foundation invites you to an unforgettable evening celebrating community, philanthropy, and student success at Stepping Out for COD 2026: Citizens of Distinction Gala. Join us on Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 5–9 p.m. at the Cahuilla Ballroom,...

read more
Shaping Tomorrow’s Media Leaders

Shaping Tomorrow’s Media Leaders

KESQ, News Channel 3 and the COD Foundation have been allied partners for years. Providing an immersive experience for student interns, they learn the behind-the-scenes of media companies, the back end of production, technical camera skills and creative and news...

read more