“I give to the Alray Scholars Program because it makes such a positive impact in the lives of so many people — including Joel Morris, a young man I’ve had the pleasure to meet through Alray. He’s on his way up, thanks in part to the mentoring Alray provides, and getting to know Joel has improved my life, too!” – Doug Warren, Donor and Mentor

“Alray’s purpose is to help out deserving students earn a college level degree through mentorship and financial support. It is with pleasure to support the Alray organization to help build financial security, a sense of accomplishment and a brighter future for these aspiring students!              Karen Kafka, Donor and Former Mentor to 2 Alray Graduates!

So many factors can come up that interrupt an individual’s journey in college. My family gives to Alray Scholars because they provide the one-on-one support that students need as they return to school to complete their undergraduate education. We support Alray Scholars because everyone deserves another chance to achieve their dream of a college degree.” – Louisa Jacquinto, Donor

“As both a donor and a mentor, I have seen firsthand how the Alray Scholars Program changes lives, enabling young people to get back on track toward college graduation and opening up a wide range of career opportunities. I give because of Alray’s proven record of success.”
– Meryl Kessler, Donor and Former Mentor

“Because our lives, professional and personal, have been characterized by a series of unplanned twists and turns. Some were happy accidents, and some were setbacks we had to overcome. We support Alray because it helps young people turn setbacks into another twist to be navigated, one that we hope will end up as a happy accident.”
Stephen Pratt & Kathleen Yazbak, Donors

“I believe in the enormous benefits of an education in an American college, and I believe in Neil Swidey’s vision.” Sol Gittleman, Donor

Perseverance — that’s the reason I donate to Alray. The recipients of Alray scholarships all embody this quality. Their determination to keep going, even when faced with significant challenges, is both impressive and deeply inspiring. Supporting Alray means supporting students who never give up on their goals, and it’s a privilege to be part of their journeys.” – Maryann Jackson, Donor

“I give to Alray because the power of mentoring combined with a second chance is something all young aspiring students deserve. This is a proven program that has shown to come full-circle where former graduates become mentors themselves.”
– Lee Bertram, Donor and Former Board Member

“I give to Alray, because I believe an education is important to being an informed citizen and learning life skills such as critical thinking, communication and problem solving. It doesn’t matter if you become a tradesperson or an academic. And if someone is willing to put in the time and work, they shouldn’t be stopped by lack of funds. Thanks for the continued work!” – Ira Kronitz, Donor

“Our foundation’s mission is to help people from low-income backgrounds build rewarding, family-supporting careers through education and training. Alray aligns perfectly with this mission by supporting a group that few others reach – individuals who are ready for a second chance at a college education. Alray’s excellent outcomes are a testament to the program’s dedicated capable staff, volunteer network, and active alumni community.” Herb and Maxine Jacobs Foundation

“I give to Alray because I believe financial hardship should not be the deterrent for a student to complete a college education. I was in a position similar to many Alray Scholars myself, and the generosity of so many others helped me to re-enroll in school and complete both my bachelors and masters degrees. Without their benevolence, I am not sure where I would be today.”
Anonymous Donor

“I give to Alray because second chances—at anything, but particularly at a post-high school education—are not easy to come by. Alray Scholars are tenacious, gritty, smart, determined and will be leaders in their communities and in their chosen professions. I want to be a part of helping the next generation contribute and succeed. I hope you do, too.” – Anonymous Donor