Our Model

Gunn Foundation provides a way for our community to support our young people who require significant financial help to attend college.

Gunn Foundation scholarships help bridge a gap, covering expenses — deposits for enrollment or housing, computers to replace school-issued Chromebooks, textbooks and online resources required for classes, supplies, transportation, and living expenses — that are often not covered by financial aid packages. 

Especially when these costs are due up front, a student from a family with limited disposable income can struggle to afford the school they have worked so hard to earn admission to.

For many students, Gunn Foundation scholarships make all the difference. 

Our History

Henry M. Gunn High School was established in 1964, and by 1968 a small group of parent volunteers had founded the Gunn Foundation to ensure that all students have the chance to attend college, regardless of their financial situation. In the 58+ year history of the Gunn Foundation, more than 600 students have benefited from the generosity of our community of donors. Donors include Gunn families, teachers, administrators, local charities, alumni, neighbors, and local businesses. 

Gunn Foundation exists to help students who require additional financial support to continue their post-high school education. We still believe that all motivated Gunn graduates should have the opportunity to attend college, regardless of their financial circumstances.

“Gunn Foundation helped make college an option for me. The scholarship relieved stress in so many ways since college is a financial burden on my family. It also encouraged me to know I can find help when I need it. Gunn Foundation was there to get me started on my college career path.”  

— Naomi, 2018 Gunn Foundation Scholar