Honoring the academic achievements of foster youth

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.

In the News

Celebration Graduation

A Graduation Full of Inspiration
Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky - June 8, 2010

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Celebration Graduation

Foster Kids Beat the Odds and Celebrate in Style
NBC Los Angeles - June 4, 2009

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Celebration Graduation

Celebration 2008 Student and Sister Overcome Hardship
Los Angeles Times - June 14, 2008

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Celebration Graduation

Foster Youth Honored at UFC's 19th Annual Graduation Event
KABC News - June 5, 2008

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Celebration Graduation

Foster Youths Forge a Proud Path to Success
Los Angeles Times - June 8, 2007

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