For the Dr. Carreón Foundation, 2026 has been a year defined by growth, recognition, and meaningful investment in the future of local students.
Founded in 1991 by Dr. Reynaldo J. Carreón, the Foundation was built on a simple but powerful belief: education can change the trajectory of a life. More than three decades later, that vision continues to guide the organization as it provides scholarships, networking opportunities, and support to students pursuing higher education.
This year, that mission reached another significant milestone. In June, the Foundation awarded a record-breaking 120 scholarships totaling more than $360,000 to students from throughout the Coachella Valley and surrounding area. The Class of 2026 scholarship recipients included graduating seniors as well as students continuing their college and post-secondary education.
Since its founding, the Foundation has awarded more than $3 million in scholarships to more than 1,400 students, with recipients attending more than 50 post-secondary institutions and vocational training programs. The Foundation reports a 90% graduation rate among its scholarship recipients.
One of the Foundation’s most important areas of growth is its commitment to students pursuing careers in healthcare. This year Desert Healthcare District & Foundation awarded the Dr. Carreón Foundation a $143,500 grant to help fund scholarships for 25 upper-level and postgraduate students pursuing healthcare careers. The Foundation’s healthcare scholarship efforts have also been supported by previous Desert Healthcare District & Foundation grants, including an $86,250 award in 2025 supporting students pursuing healthcare careers.
Another highlight of 2026 came with recognition from the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Desert Communities Chapter. Dr. Carreón Foundation was selected as the 2026 Philanthropic Organization of the Year, an honor recognizing organizations making a significant difference through philanthropy and community impact. The Foundation will be recognized at the 2026 National Philanthropy Day Awards Luncheon on November 6 at Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa in Rancho Mirage.
“This year represents an exciting period of growth and impact for the Dr. Carreon Foundation,” said Executive Director Ricardo Loretta. “We are proud to expand our scholarship support and provide more opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. None of this would be possible without the generosity of our donors and the continued support of our community. Being recognized as the 2026 Philanthropic Organization of the Year is an incredible honor that reinforces our commitment to investing in the future of our local youth,” he added.
The Foundation’s next scholarship application period is scheduled to open in December 2026, giving another group of students the opportunity to receive financial support.
