Volunteer Program

Welcome to the Simon Scholars Volunteer Program, where our college scholars and alumni are supporting the next generation of scholars. Our internal volunteer program is built on the foundation of gratitude, mentorship, and community, with countless individuals stepping up to make a difference.

The SSP Volunteer program was established to create a sustainable legacy of positive change within our community through a dynamic ecosystem that leverages the invaluable experiences and expertise of our College Scholars and Alumni. One goal is to create a supportive network where volunteers return to share their knowledge, passion, and commitment, fostering collaboration to uplift and guide future generations toward achieving their fullest potential. A second goal is to enhance volunteers’ professional and personal growth. Through meaningful activities and events, we aim to build skilled and resilient individuals, ultimately empowering them to thrive in their careers and contribute positively to the broader community.

Events Volunteers Participate In

Our volunteers play a crucial role in numerous events throughout the year, including:

Leadership Symposium (overnight)
Fall Retreat (overnight)
College Tours (overnight)
Junior Leadership Day
New Scholar Interviews
Senior Awards
And more!

"I have always described the Simon Scholars Program as a breath of fresh air. It has fundamentally changed my life in various ways. I have been able to come across new experiences such as traveling, building strong relationships with current scholars, alumni scholars, and staff, and above all, gained a greater confidence in myself and my abilities like never before. Coming back as a Volunteer was a way for me to give back and reconnect with the program as an Alumni. Little did I know that I would find myself advocating for a position to support the Volunteer Program and later become an Intern. I have seen myself grow professionally in how I advocate for myself and my skill set. As a first generation professional, I have learned to lean into discomfort, take a chance, be open-minded, and seek mentorship. The Volunteer Program has opened my eyes to new professional interests and relationships. I am forever grateful to be part of such an amazing scholarship program that has poured into both my academic journey, and personal and professional development."

Jessie Felicitas Duran Program Coordinator, Simon Builders Program

"I love that I get to give back and most importantly help support the current scholars in the program. It’s truly rewarding to spend some time helping to make sure whatever event or project is happening is successful. The program feels so much larger now compared to when I was a scholar, so meeting some of the current scholars and connecting with them is truly special."

Eric CuevasLeadership Development Training Specialist, The Walt Disney Company

"The foundation has grown immensely in the last several years and with that has come a need for mentorship, which was my inspiration for becoming a volunteer. Listening to the stories of current scholars and having the opportunity to share my own is what motivates me time and time again to be a part of the various trips, symposiums, panels and activities that the foundation organizes for current and college scholars. As a Simon Scholarship recipient myself, it brings me immeasurable joy to give back to the program that gave so much to me."

Micki Smith Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Program Manager

From Scholars to Volunteers

As a high school scholar, you looked up to alumni who shared their college experiences and advice. Now, it’s your turn to pay it forward. Alumni like Jesus Bravo and Eric Cuevas have found fulfillment in volunteering, supporting the next generation of scholars, and contributing to a legacy of positive change within the community.

"I recently just went on the college tour in New York with the high school scholars. On the tour, I could see some nerves from the scholars about applying for colleges. I remember I had the same nerves when I was applying for colleges. I was so worried about not getting accepted to places and there were some rejection letters that are still in the back of mind. Now that I’m about to graduate college, the same nerves are coming back with what to do after college. Remembering those nerves back then is helping me reassure that whichever direction I decided to take after college, it’ll all eventually work out."

Brandon Nguyen California State University, Fullerton, 2024

"My volunteer work has impacted my life in a very positive way of being self-fulfilling. I have a strong belief in giving back to those who helped you along the way, for we seldom fully accomplish anything by ourselves. It is with help from our support systems that we reach some of our major goals and milestones, and so it is equally important to give back and reciprocate that level of support (especially to the newer generation of scholars). Quoting an author, “Your rewards in life will be in direct proportion to the value of your service to others.” Regarding the program participants, I do hope that my consistent volunteering has left a positive impact on them by being a familiar face at events, as well as a reliable mentor who can give insight into the first-generation college experience (as well as post-grad experience)."

Jesus BravoSubstitute Teacher @ NMUSD

"I feel and hope that my volunteer work with Simon Scholars has made a positive impact on both the program and myself. For the program, I am forever grateful for everything they have given me and so my only way of thanking them profusely is to give back. I hope through my time in volunteering I was able to make a difference and help the program. For me, as I am passionate about working with young people and youth development, this was a way for me to gain invaluable experience in my field to this day."

Alan Nguyen Expanded Learning Site Coordinator @ SAUSD

Volunteer Corp Members

We extend our sincerest gratitude to the members of our Volunteer Corps for their dedication, commitment, and invaluable contributions to our program. Your tireless efforts have played a significant role in shaping the experiences of our scholars and fostering a supportive community.

Lisa Hardiman
Luigi Palumbo
Micki Smith
Raquel Read
Teresa Gudino
Valeria Zecua
Yarelis Lopez

Emily Gonzalez
Emily Olvera
Han Nguyen
Jenna Nguyen
Jessie Duran
Jesus Bravo
Kiana Araujo
Leslie Merino

Adrian Lopez
Alan Nguyen
Alberto Jimenez
Alexina Estrada Cuevas
Arely Escoto
Brandon Nguyen
Bryant Vivar
Dalila Sanchez
Dayana Martinez

Volunteer Opportunities

Our volunteers support almost every facet of the Simon Scholars program, from participating in college and career panels to chaperoning scholars on overnight events. Whether you prefer behind-the-scenes support or leading group activities, there’s a volunteer opportunity for you.

We’re excited to introduce a new volunteer program designed to make it easy for you to get involved. With a variety of volunteer opportunities and flexible commitment levels, you can choose the level of involvement that fits your schedule and interests.

Our volunteer program offers two options for involvement:

General Volunteers

Volunteer Corps

Ready to get involved?

If you’re a Simon Scholar between the ages 18-21+, Sign up for our Volunteer Program today and start making a difference in the lives of Simon Scholars.

Track Our Impact

Every hour contributes to the success of the Simon Scholars program and the future of our scholars.

For the fiscal year 2023-2024 we have completed a total of

Volunteer Hours

Volunteering with Simon Scholars isn’t just about giving back—it’s also an opportunity for personal and professional growth. Gain hands-on experience, develop valuable skills, and reconnect with the Simon Scholars community. For more information and questions email us at volunteers@simonscholars.org