Inspiring the next generation of Leaders

 

Our mission

The mission of the C5 Youth Foundation of Southern California, is to change the odds for high-potential teens from under-resourced communities by inspiring them to pursue personal success, while preparing them for leadership roles in school, college, work and their communities.

Character-driven

Community-focused

Challenge-ready

College-bound

Committed to a better future

Boy on Ropes.jpg

INSPIRE

Thousands of first generation, under resourced Leaders have benefited from our programs.

LEAD

Annually, 72 middle school Leaders join our multi-year youth development and college access program.

Student graduation

SUCCEED

100% of C5 Leaders graduate high school and receive the tools and skills necessary to pursue successful college and professional careers.

 

 Programs

  • Students in kayaks

    Year 1: Camp (Flint/Lantern)
    Learning to lead myself.

  • Students backpacking

    Year 2: Bridges (Hammer)
    Expanding my horizons.

  • Students at University of Oregon

    Year 3: Road To College (Compass)
    Exploring my future.

  • Students smiling

    Year 4: ACT Now (Medallion)
    Engaging my community.

  • Students sitting on college lawn, smiling

    Year 5: College Bootcamp
    Realizing my vision.

  • Graduates on UCLA steps

    And Beyond
    Achieving my goals.

Learn more

Get Involved

  • Kids with life vests standing by lake smiling

    Are you an 8th grader with a sense of purpose and adventure? Learn how to become a Leader at C5LA.

    Become a Leader
  • Student sitting at desk submitting college applications on her laptop

    Are you a teacher or counselor with a bright student in mind? Learn more about nominating them to be a Leader.

    Nominate a leader
  • Donors speaking to student at fundraiser gala

    Interested in supporting our Leaders and our mission? Learn how to become a partner.

    Partner with us

Follow Us

🚀 Career Exploration 2025 – A Day of Discovery! 🔍🎓 Our Class of 2026 Leaders spent an incredible day at @calstatela diving into career exploration and professional growth! From resume-building workshops to an interactive Career Speed Dating
We are beyond grateful to the Los Angeles Lakers Foundation for their generous grant support. Your commitment to making a difference goes far beyond the game, and because of you, we can continue empowering our Leaders with the opportunities they des
On Tuesday March 26th, Kaminos hosted a STEAM - pop up event at the Chinatown Branch Public Library. Children from Kindergarten to 5th grade participated in activities such as origami, 3D printing, silly putty, and more! The goal of this event was t