History

Founded in 2002, the American Youth Scholarship Foundation is a non-profit organization established for the betterment of community through assistance in educational pursuits.  Dr. Alexander Kashef worked with Aurelia R. Figueroa to establish this foundation which will support the leaders and scholars of our country.

Dr. Kashef has had a long educational career—studying at the University of Southern California, UC-Santa Barbara, UC-Davis, and UC-San Francisco, with time in Europe as well.  He is an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon by trade, and has many interests and hobbies.  He has studied with some of the best in his field, and developed many passions in respect of the arts, and of the world around him.  He’s seen the need for a foundation like the one he has created, and believes the fruits that come from mentoring are an invaluable part of society—something that the Foundation works to provide. 

Aurelia R. Figueroa, the Executive Director of the American Youth Scholarship Foundation, recognizes that much of her desire to support the Foundation comes from witnessing the need for it in her daily life.  She says “the Foundation is born from a very noble idea.  It comes from the desire to support our students and to promote the future of our communities.  And, strong communities lead to strong nations.”

The Foundation actively seeks support from others for mentoring.  Dr. Kashef has identified the greatest value of the foundation as its ability to show students support for their efforts.  And, as a non-profit organization, donations of assets to the American Youth Scholarship Foundation are tax-deductible.  It is an exciting time to be involved in the American Youth Scholarship Foundation.  Though the Foundation is based locally, it will seek to help, and improve globally. 

The Foundation pursues these goals by providing educational programs at all levels that support communities across the country.  The United States Model House of Representatives Program is a nationwide civic engagement and leadership program for college students who are active in their communities.  Be a part of history by supporting the inaugural year and the future American leaders that will be a part of this unique event held at the Capitol complex in Washington, DC.  You may visit the website for this program at Model House of Representatives

The American Youth Scholarship Foundation will also sponsor Day at City Hall at many local communities, in partnership with local city governments, and serving middle school students.  The Foundation also sponsors the Global Conversations with International Figures lecture series in partnership with San Jose State University brings diplomats from around the world to converse with the Silicon Valley community.   By having local and national programs that benefit students at many different levels of study, we hope to provide many opportunities for youth to become and stay civically engaged.