Celebration Graduation
Honoring the academic achievements of foster youth.
Since 1990, this annual event has recognized foster youth who graduate from high school with a 2.8 grade point average or higher and plan to attend a college, university, trade or vocational school. All of the foster youth participating in Celebration receive college sponsorships in varying amounts.
UFC awards 30-40 college sponsorships with a combined value of over $450,000 per year for up to five years, to help offset the financial burden of college.
Past Events
Youth Honored at Annual Celebration Graduation Event
Hundreds of community members, UFC board and staff members, and friends and family of the graduates came out to Walt Disney Concert Hall to celebrate the academic achievements of Los Angeles foster youth. Nearly 150 youth participated in the very special graduation ceremony that included guest speakers Raven-Symoné and Harry Lennix, and Master of Ceremonies Damon Wayans, Jr. with a special video message from Paula Abdul. UFC also hosted a pre-reception for the 30 students receiving UFC College Sponsorships and all the guests of the evening enjoyed a wonderful catered reception by Patina.
Over 130 foster youth honored at 19th Annual Graduation Event
UFC and its community partners honored the academic achievements of L.A. County foster youth at the annual Celebration graduation ceremony on June 4, 2008 at Walt Disney Concert Hall. Of the over 130 youth graduating from high school and continuing on to college, 34 received a total of $435,000 in scholarships from UFC. Mike Epps served as the emcee, and Jurnee Smollett, Tameka Jacobs, John Hill, and two former foster youth were guest speakers at the ceremony. Over 800 graduates and their families and friends as well as community supporters enjoyed the evening program and reception catered by Patina.
Save the Date
Celebration Graduation
June 8, 2010 - Walt Disney Concert Hall
Join UFC and our partners to celebrate the academic achievements of Los Angeles County foster youth. Students planning to go to college in the Fall of 2010, with a 2.8 GPA or higher are invited to participate in Celebration 2010. In total, more than $400,000 in scholarships will be awarded at the ceremony.
Download the Celebration application. Applications are due by Wednesday, March 10.
For more information, please contact Lizeth Hernandez.
In the News
Celebration Graduation
Foster Kids Beat the Odds and Celebrate in Style
NBC Los Angeles - June 4, 2009
Celebration Graduation
Celebration 2008 Student and Sister Overcome Hardship
Los Angeles Times - June 14, 2008
Celebration Graduation
Foster Youth Honored at UFC's 19th Annual Graduation Event
KABC News - June 5, 2008
Celebration Graduation
Foster Youths Forge a Proud Path to Success
Los Angeles Times - June 8, 2007