OUR MISSION
AND VALUES
Guided by our core values and commitment to give back to the community, the mission of the Andrés y María Cárdenas Family Foundation is to create positive change in the Northeast San Fernando Valley by providing educational resources and financial assistance to deserving and ambitious students.
OUR STORY
The story began when Andrés and María Cárdenas arrived in California over 50 years ago from the state of Jalisco, Mexico. They sought opportunities to thrive through hard work, and their perseverance led to many accomplishments. Andrés first worked in the fields, then as a laborer, and later established his own business. Andrés and Maria proudly raised a family of eleven children, instilling in them the same values of hard work and discipline.
The family grew up in a modest home in Pacoima, California. Andrés and María Cárdenas continuously supported their children and encouraged them to succeed. They were fortunate enough to see their sons and daughters earn degrees in many fields, such as education, psychology, and engineering, and become compassionate community members - creating a generational shift.
WHAT WE DO
The Andrés y María Cárdenas Family Foundation provides scholarships and support to Northeast San Fernando Valley students pursuing higher education, fostering a network of compassionate leaders who elevate their community through service and achievement. By investing in the education goals, resilience, and promise of students in their community, the Foundation creates generational change in our scholars' families.
For over 25 years, the Foundation has supported students’ educational goals giving almost $1.5 million in support to over 1,400 students.
The Foundations provides more than financial assistance. It offers services and support to help students and their families navigate and manage the education journey.
CORNERSTONES FOR SUCCESS
PERSERVERANCE
Beyond grades and school activities, the Foundation values perseverance, resilience, and grit - the drive that creates pathways where there are barriers.
INVESTMENT IN EDUCATION
The Foundation scholarship is more than a financial award. It is often the seed funding a dream and the beginning of a generational shift.
FAMILY SUPPORT
The Foundation supports the student and their family with guidance and services to prepare for and manage the journey of higher education.
CONNECTION TO A NETWORK
Our scholarship recipients benefit from connections to mentors, industry networking, and career guidance from top professionals with life and educational experiences similar to their own.
BOARD MEMBERS
Brian De La Rosa
Nicolas Cardenas
Marcos Cardenas
Ernesto Cardenas
President
Vice President
Board Secretary
Board Member / Former President
Vanessa De La Rosa
Jerry Ascencio
Heather Briggs
Board Member
Board Member
Board Member
Macaria Flores
Mateo Barron
Dr. Erica Reynoso
Board Member
Board Member
Board Member
LET'S
CONNECT
Andrés y María Cárdenas Family Foundation
13700 Foothill Blvd., #920008
Sylmar, CA 91392-0008
Phone: ( 818) 217-1449
info@cardenasfoundation.org