Giving Tuesday: Make a lasting impact

Support the Rising Star programs to help North County high school students take the next step in higher education

For over a decade, North County Chambers have celebrated the resilience and determination of high school seniors through their Rising Star Programs. Designed to honor students who have overcome significant life challenges while staying on track with their education, the program highlights the strength and perseverance of these remarkable individuals.

The chambers partner with local school districts to identify the students who will be recognized each month. Throughout the school year, Rising Star students, along with their families and school representatives, are invited to a special breakfast event to share their journeys of perseverance and resilience.

Many of these students open up about the extraordinary challenges they've faced — experiences that no child should have to endure. Their stories, both heartrending and inspiring, resonate deeply with the business and community leaders who attend, leaving a lasting impression.

The Rising Star initiative first launched in North County through the Vista Chamber of Commerce and has since expanded to include the Carlsbad, Encinitas, Oceanside, and San Marcos chambers. A central focus of the program is to recognize students who show exceptional resolve in the face of adversity.

The Rising Star Program presents a unique opportunity for students by offering scholarship funds to support their educational aspirations. At the end of each school year, students who have been named Rising Stars are invited to apply for scholarships through their local Chambers of Commerce. So far, the five participating chambers have awarded over $300,000 in scholarships to more than 260 students.

Amy Martinez, a recent graduate of Pacific View Charter School, was one of this year's scholarship recipients and has shared how the program has made a profound difference in her life.  

“The Rising Star Scholarship has had a huge impact on my life and my future,” Martinez said. “It has helped me continue pursuing my dreams and goals. After graduating from high school, I enrolled in community college as a pre-med Public Health major. The scholarship has allowed me to focus more on my studies and less on financial stress.

“I was even able to save up to buy a car, giving me reliable transportation to school. Not having to worry about how I’ll get to class has allowed me to concentrate on my academics and maintain good grades. The scholarship has also given me a sense of independence and control over my education. I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity and the support I’ve received.”

The Rising Star Programs continue to provide vital resources to North County students, empowering them to pursue their goals and dreams. Chamber leaders encourage business and community members to consider donations to the Rising Star Scholarship programs. If you are interested in supporting the program, please reach out to your local Chamber today.

To view more about your local Rising Star program, click here for Carlsbad, Encinitas, Oceanside, San Marcos and Vista.

Scott Ashton is the Chief Executive Officer of the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce. He has been on staff at the Chamber since 1996 and took on his current role in November 2016. Scott has more than 30 years of experience in the Chamber industry in a variety of sales and management capacities.