2023 Top-Rated Nonprofit

EASE Sacramento

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Nonprofit Overview

Causes: Human Service Organizations, Human Services

Mission: Founded in 2005, The Alliance for Compassion and Education Development - ACED (formerly known as Sacramento Valley Regional Care Coalition) has spent the past 15 years working with under-served youth. As a provider of wrap-around service and support, ACED is focused on and driven by the needs of brilliant and talented young minds who may have been given an unfair start in life. EASE, an initiative of ACED, is the heartbeat of what we do. The idea was generated after longtime friend and donor, Phil Oates, saw the film, The Blind Side. He wondered just how many other "Big Mikes" were out there and visualized a reality where kids like him, talented and driven, were given the opportunity of an excellent education that otherwise wouldn't be afforded to them. The troubling truth is: some students face dead-end academic options because of severely low-performing schools in their area. Given the dice roll of life, and how the academic system is designed, so many high-potential students are not given a fair shake at success without having the necessary tools and support needed to reach their goals. Many students with brilliance and potential are taught at the pace of the slowest learner in an overcrowded classroom. This is where EASE plays a role in bridging that gap and has positively changed the trajectory of hundreds of young lives. EASE, an acronym for EMPOWER. ADVOCATE. SERVE. EQUIP., empowers students with a top-level education, full support and assistance and provides a foundation that stabilizes their pillars of success. We aim to minimize, and if possible, eliminate any environmental factors that would stunt their growth and development. In a partnership with the parent/guardian, a re-routed academic road map is offered to the student. EASE exists to level the playing field and lift up these courageous leaders of tomorrow.

Community Stories

54 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

masona108 Client Served

Rating: 5

09/11/2023

I started at CCS in 6th grade when I moved in with my grandparents after the school year already started. It was stressful not knowing where I would be going to school again. My grandparents were not sure if applying and attending CCS was an option financially. Since attending CCS I have grown academically, my confidence has increased and I’ve made forever friendships. I have been guided and helped by great teachers and ACED mentors that really care. We are very grateful and appreciative of the support and assistance of the ACED program.

Ju23 Client Served

Rating: 5

09/07/2023

I was lucky enough to be a student of the Aced(ease) program for all 4 years of my high school journey. They not only helped me within school, but also helped me grow as a person. Without them I wouldn’t have been able to attend such a prestigious school, and gain the knowledge I carry with me today. They not only have open arms and loving hearts but also compassion for each and every one of their students. Now in my junior year of college I still stay in touch and often stop by to say hello! They are a wonderful group of people who not only help their students grow but the others around them as well!

1

josienchristaeleifi Client Served

Rating: 5

09/07/2023

ACED has been a God sent, the blessing that continues to give to our family in so many amazing ways. As a parent of 2 alums, and one current student of the program we’re beyond grateful for their love, support & compassion shown to our entire family throughout the years; especially this toughest of years. With my cancer diagnosis and my husband having a stroke. It’s been the hardest year of our lives. In having our Joy in ACED (one of the first elementary students in the program), and how they’ve loved, cared and provided for her, I cannot explain how much this has meant to us, especially now. I can only hope and pray that mine will one day be able to give back, what they’ve given us. THANK YOU, THANK YOU! God bless you all, for ALL you do! ♥️ -The Taeleifi’s

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Client Served

Rating: 5

08/02/2022

ACED has been beyond a blessing to my family. This amazing program has put 2 of our kids through; one who's currently serving on the Reagan as an AO in the Navy; and our latest 2022 honors grad with multiple scholarship offers; from multiple schools. None of which would've been possible without the support of our ACED family, because that's what they are to us...family. They provide a safe space for our kids to reach their absolute full potential while providing them all of the love, guidance, support, and compassion needed to succeed whatever path they choose. Oh and can't forget the yummy food and snacks daily, ask Grace lol! We can't thank Sherene, John, Mel and Nifae enough for all of their "heart" work. Thank you all, and God bless you guys for all you do. Can't wait for our youngest Joy, to experience it as well ;) . God is great. Much gratitude, love and blessings.
-THE TAELEIFI FAMILY xoxo

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1

t-r3nn Client Served

Rating: 5

09/07/2023

A.C.E.D. has provided more than just an education for me. They have provided me with hope of the future. They have provided for me in ways that a simple "Thank You" does not do it justice! Before A.C.E.D. I was lost on what my future education looked like and was even going to give up on it. In my greatest time of need, the Lord provided through this amazing organization. I don't know where I would be without A.C.E.D.!

1

andrew.axtell General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/07/2023

I love aced. It has helped so much with relationships with people and with my walk with god. The environment is so great and nice. No one’s mean or rude and the place is so nice. I’m very blessed to be a part of aced.

1

cel23 Client Served

Rating: 5

09/07/2023

Aced helped me a lot over the last 3 years.They made sure i had all my school books and supplies,checked in with me to make sure im doing good in school.Also,they provide us with food which helps us a lot too

1

C_Taione Client Served

Rating: 5

09/07/2023

ACED played a big role. They helped my boy's tremendously thru academics and more. This program gave them what they needed and I am forever grateful. Thank you ACED family

1

Brotheboss Client Served

Rating: 5

09/07/2023

They have helped me get the education I needed to really excel in life and I'm extremely grateful. I can't wait for other people to get the same experience I had

1

bes23 Client Served

Rating: 5

09/07/2023

Aced has helped me and my family greatly. They are supportive, encouraging, faith driven, and welcoming to everyone. My years of highschool have truly been made better because of the ACED program!

1

justinmel Client Served

Rating: 5

09/07/2023

Love ACED! Always helped me in my times of need wether it be welcoming me and just talking or helping me with my grades. Such an amazing team

1

cct117 Client Served

Rating: 5

09/06/2023

ACED really helped me in my times of need. When my mom and dad divorced, I thought that I wasn't going to be able to attend my dream school. But then God blessed me with the ACED program. Because of them, I get to attend the highschool of my dreams with a four-year scholarship. Not only is the ACED program itself a blessing, but also those who work there too. People like coach Nifae, Mrs. Sherene, and Mrs. Mel, have always been there for me spiritually and emotionally. I don't know what I'd do without them in my life. Thank you so much for all that you do, and have done for me.

1

Manu-Richardson23 Client Served

Rating: 5

09/06/2023

The ACE program is more then a community, it’s a family. The staff goes up and beyond there works just to make sure that we are well mentally, physically and spiritually. Honestly a blessing to be part of this family and could not ask more anything better then what they have done for me my brother and family.

1

leronncodin Client Served

Rating: 5

09/06/2023

I absolutely love the ACED program, they are always kind, caring, and compassionate. I love their drive to serve others it warms my heart, I thank God that we have the ACED program at my school

1

Bigl7777 Client Served

Rating: 5

09/06/2023

What can I say about ACED program, a true God sent. ACED program took really good care of both of my sons. They show love kindness, compassion, and they truly want to see your kids succeed.

1

Dogdog49 Client Served

Rating: 5

09/06/2023

Great people, great support, great everything, I’ll give them 6 stars if I could

1

Proud_Mama Client Served

Rating: 5

09/06/2023

The ACED program has embraced my children and our life story from the beginning. I have sacrificed so much as a single mom to send my children to this school and when my life made a change for the worst, this program and their leadership was here for me and most importantly my children. They genuinely love my kids, would do anything for them, and I know I can count on them to ensure their high school academic education and experience is impactful.

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Client Served

Rating: 5

08/09/2022

Being a part of the ACED community has been the greatest blessing my family has ever received. The culture and dynamics of the ACED program has changed lives, opened up huge doors, refined individuals and provided opportunity for our youth that otherwise would not be possible. We are beyond thankful and forever humbled to be a part of this program.

1

daltex3069 Client Served

Rating: 5

09/05/2023

My daughter is so blessed to be part of a program that not only helps with the financial burden but also cares for her growth and development. The structured program helps her stay on track and she knows she has people who care that are cheering her on! It is amazing and we are so grateful!

1

Temekka Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/10/2022

Aced is a phenomenal program! My son and I have been blessed be apart of this program.

1

lvaldez916 Client Served

Rating: 5

08/09/2022

The ACED program has helped my son Jaylen tremendously. With the help of the ACED program He is able to reach his maximum potential with his education and athletic abilities. They care for each and every one of their students and it really shows. We are blessed beyond measure to be a part of this program!! A big THANK YOU to all those who make it possible.

1

latashabrown Client Served

Rating: 5

08/09/2022

The work that the ACED program does for our kids and us parents is amazing.

1

Sarmstro1961 Client Served

Rating: 5

08/08/2022

We truly appreciate and are sincerely grateful for the support, time, caring, and passion that ACED has provided to our grandson. We cannot express our gratitude enough for the wonderful opportunity this has given our grandson. This amazing program and support system is such a blessing.

The dedicated work and support you all do day after day - and the kind, thoughtful way it is done - is deeply appreciated!!!

THANK YOU

1

snickers1812 Client Served

Rating: 5

08/08/2022

We were introduced to ACED organization a few years back. This has been a Godsend for my grandson and our family. He has been helped so much by ACED and this is enabling him to look forward to a great future with the direction he has received. I'm so thankful to the support we have been given and look forward to repaying some of what they've done for us.

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1

Client Served

Rating: 5

10/20/2020

I am a grandmother that is so thankful to ACED for being available with both help, and hope over the past two years. We have a child that has been attending school, that we thought we would have to remove due to cost. When we were introduced to ACED we received hope. My grandchild continues to do well in school. His progress has been in great part, to ACED. We are so thankful to ACED and pray the program continues to help those in need.

1

FalveyFamily Client Served

Rating: 5

08/02/2022

My family has been so fortunate to be able to send 3 kids to Capital Christian High school with the help of ACED. The support that Sherene, Jon, Mel and Nifae have have been able to provide has been outstanding! The opportunities they have been provided are truly a blessing!

1

air_gavin Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/02/2022

Alliance for compassion and education development has changed my life so much in a positive way. They love and care about everyone and really show there efforts. They really have helped me a lot with school, sports and educational. I cannnot express how grateful i am for them helping me and many others.

1

ZephaniahW Client Served

Rating: 5

08/02/2022

Goin on my fourth year with the Alliance for Compassion and Education Development team and they continue to be the most loving people I have ever known in an educational environment. However the love does not end there, they are also heavily involved in kids lives outside of school and build lasting relationships. I am very blessed to be apart of such a devoted and Christ centered family.

1

Andre.rabb.patterson Client Served

Rating: 5

08/02/2022

A.C.E.D is a great program and they help with so many things. I appreciate being in this progam and all the things they do for us. It' a safe place. Definitely recommend joining.

1

cmilton45 Client Served

Rating: 5

08/02/2022

We have always wanted our children to go to a good school with Christian values. However Our family’s budget/income made a school like Capital Christian completely unattainable for our 4 children. Even with traditional financial aide, we could not afford tuition for even one of our children. This changed when we were told about the Ease grant program. We applied for my older son to start his high school journey and he was approved for the amount we requested. Although we only applied for one of our children, this gave us hope for our little ones in the future. Ease has created an invaluable opportunity for my son (and maybe our other children in the future) to grow, excel and thrive within a faith-based school. We are truly honored and blessed by the donors that have contributed to this program. Thank you! From the MILTON FAMILY!!!!!

1

tamikolynch Client Served

Rating: 5

08/01/2022

I can't say enough about how this group of advisors has helped my son. They are truly his home away from home. From the nutritional support, they provide to the tutoring help, emotional support, and the loving Godly encouragement my son receives on a daily bases. This program is priceless! I just hate that we didn't connect with this program earlier in his education journey. This is my son's last year of high school and you all have become like family! Thank you!

1

Jaxtell Client Served

Rating: 5

07/20/2022

ACED has been nothing but amazing for our son Andrew. We are so grateful for the staff and all the support we get with his educational needs. They have gone above and beyond and we feel so incredibly blessed to be part of this program. Shereen and her team are absolutely phenomenal at what they do and really have a Christ like heart when it comes to serve the community and students.

1

GNHobson Client Served

Rating: 5

05/30/2021

Overall, the ACED program has made my son feel like he is a part of a family. They have made it their priority to care for their students at Capital Christian High School by creating an atmosphere that feels like a second home. In addition, the ACED staff have gone above and beyond in their efforts to help and support my son through his educational journey by providing the resources necessary for him to continue to thrive. On many occasions, my son has verbally expressed how the ACED program/staff is his favorite part about school!! That means a lot to our family. We are extremely blessed and grateful for their love and generosity!!

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Client Served

Rating: 5

10/21/2020

The Alliance for Compassion and Education Development program has been a true blessing to my son and our family. We are so grateful for their work, support and involvement towards enhancing our son's academic experience at Capital Christian High School.

1

Ifetayo F. Donor

Rating: 5

05/17/2021

ACED is an excellent resource at Capital Christian High School and has been integral to my son’s academic, spiritual, and personal development. I am grateful for the generosity, kindness, and love shown in practical ways to the EASE program students. My son and I happily nominate ACED as it represents so much light and promises fulfilled in students’ lives. As a single mother, I am overwhelmed with gratitude to the leadership and staff for seeing the uniqueness of my son and valuing him as I do: THANK YOU.

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1

Donor

Rating: 5

10/20/2020

Sherene and Jonathan take time to get to know the students and are invested in their academic development, personal well-being, and show so much excellence in everything they do. My son feels loved and supported at Capital Christian, your efforts are making an immediate positive contribution in our lives, enabling him a huge opportunity to reach his God-given potential. Love you lots!

1

estollmeyer General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

05/14/2021

Compassion through education and resources for a brighter future. Serving those that can utilize the services for a brighter future.

1

lucky1969 Client Served

Rating: 5

05/14/2021

My son Gavin has been blessed to be part of the Aced program since 7th grade. This coming fall he will be a freshman and without Aced the opportunity to go to such a special school never would have been possible. The diversity of the students, the caring atmosphere and the motivation to excel is life changing and we appreciate the Aced family so very very much

Previous Stories
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Client Served

Rating: 5

10/20/2020

Aced has meant the world to our son Gavin. Having the opportunity to move to a safer school that provides him the best opportunity to learn and grow has changed his life. We are so very grateful for the support that Aced gives to Gavin and for the diversity that Capital Christian provides that Gavin was missing at his previous school. He finally feels like he belongs. The small class sizes have helped him to really grow as a student. Without Aced we would not be able to send Gavin to Capital Christian. We believe that this opportunity will change his whole future.

1

Lexi F.1 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

05/14/2021

As a head coach for the volleyball team at the high school, I am amazed by the growth of the students who participate in this program. They are really making a difference and shaping our youth to be strong and hard working young women and men.

2

Capital_Mom Client Served

Rating: 5

11/01/2020

The EASE program is a blessing. A blessing that is available to any child and parent who understand the child’s role as a student, respect the Program's objective/purposes, and maximize the benefits of the program. This Program was a “communal” support system that provided a solid spiritual and educational foundation for my son to successfully obtain bachelor’s and master’s degrees and have the opportunity to play in the National Football League. While there were obstacles, the Program gave us the strength to say ... “That was ee zee.” It worked for us. I am grateful and appreciative for all who made my son and family better people/neighbors through prayers, donations, sacrifices, and more. Sincerely.

1

ccolvin Client Served

Rating: 5

10/28/2020

The Alliance for Compassion and Education Development program has changed my sons life and mine as well. The program provided a safe environment for him. He always has positive things to say about the program. The ACED program at Capital has helped my son mature into a responsible young man. He knows that if he needs to talk to any of the staff members about his grades or work progress or personal things they are always available for him and that makes me feel very blessed. Julian came across this program during middle of 9th grade and he just kept telling me I needed to meet the staff they are so nice and the program will really help me while I attend Capital. I had a meeting and discovered all the opportunities that this program had to offer for these students and I was taken back by all they had to offer the students. They provide shelter, tutoring, family support, life training skills, college information, progress checks, communication skills . Julian loved the token program ( work to earn tokens to spend during open hours). I am personally thankful for Sherene Gruver she has been a blessing in disguise over the years. She really loves being a part of this successful program. I pray that this program continues at Capital and I pray that it can help other families for years to come. Thank you to all of the staff members over the years. I love this program and the experience that it has provided for my son's growth. God Bless.

1

Cayla F. Client Served

Rating: 5

10/22/2020

Oh my goodness, where to start!!! This program has drastically benefited both of my sons. My oldest is 17, but was 14 when he entered ACED. He has gone from a boy struggling to find himself, to a respectful young man that is a true leader. 4.3 GPA, captain of the varsity basketball team, leadership program, etc.. We owe this largely in part to the positive role models In ACED. My younger son just started in the program a few weeks ago. He is only in first grade, but every week he looks forward to going to visit the ladies at ACED. I am so excited to see his journey through school, especially with ACED in his corner.

1

justsm Client Served

Rating: 5

10/21/2020

The younger version of me, pre-EASE, did not have much of a different upbringing, background, character and ability than the next person. Yet, today, the gap between me and the next person is vast. I can honestly say the difference was EASE. I would not be the person I am today without the resources, mentorship and people that I was surrounded by. Though I have made many professional and academic achievements (Harvard degree, Goldman Sachs offer, NFL career, Vanderbilt masters), it is the outpour of guidance from EASE that helped me develop into a better person, future father and partner.

1

Tammivann Client Served

Rating: 5

10/20/2020

Me and my family have had the greastest experience with the Alliance for Compassion and Education Development Program. My son started the program in the 8th grade at Capital Christian, ACED was a big help. They made the transition from public school to private school easy. The staff is so dedicated to make sure each stdents needs are met (academically,emotionally). Without the help of the program my son would not have a opportunity to get a great education and develop a relationship with God and peers.

1

ZephaniahW. Client Served

Rating: 5

10/20/2020

Aced changed my life by paying for my entire tuition. This is probably the biggest blessing I have received in my life and I am extremely grateful for them.
Ms. Sherene and Ms. Mel are the kindest people I have ever met and have great hearts for God and a great amount of love for the children they pour their hearts into.
Five stars is not enough to describe how important this alliance is to everyone.

1

em.pre55 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/20/2020

My experience here at ACED has been absolutely amazing! The lady’s there, Sherene and Mel, are so wonderful and truly care about each person that comes in. Going to the ACED is something I always look forward to.

1

S_Butler Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/20/2020

Ease makes a difference in the lives of all the students it reaches. It is a safe haven for the kids. It’s a place where they can go to relax, eat, talk, and have community. It is truly unique and something special. The Ease team loves the students wants to positively impact in their lives.

1

Nifae Lealao J. Client Served

Rating: 5

10/20/2020

My name is Nifae P. Lealao Jr, and I had the opportunity to be apart of the EASE program during my high school career, 2010-2014 at Capital Christian High School. EASE is a program that provided me with the best opportunity to succeed not only at the high school level, but in life as well. Being the first student in the program, was something to be thankful for in itself. One person I can never forget to mention is my mentor, Sherene Gruver. Not only was she a mentor, but a mother figure for me as well. She stood by me the whole way, during my lows and highs, and for that she and her family will always be a part of a very few that I call my family. The love and devotion she had for her students was something I admired tremendously. Words cannot express how grateful I am for her dedication to my success not only in school and sports, but life as well. I thank the program for her, and giving students like me an opportunity to experience an amazing school. Without EASE, my family and I would not have been able to sustain the financial obligations. So, reminding myself that this was a privilege to be able to go to school, play sports and publicly show your love for God, is what motivated me to always hold myself to a higher standard in everything I did no matter how big or small. And that’s why I’ve chosen to give back because I want to remind everyone in the program how much of a privilege it is to have this opportunity. Most of the time at 14-18 years old, it’s hard to comprehend that sort of thing. Also, I just want to encourage students that they can do big things at a smaller institution such as Capital. Moreover, I wanted to be able to give myself as a resource for whatever they might be inquiring about beyond HS or just advice to get through similar situations that I experienced when I was in their shoes not too long ago. All in all, I believe that with everything I have experienced in my life thus far, it would be more beneficial for me to pay it forward, instead of selfishly keeping it to myself. My parents always told me, “Whatever you do, make sure you thank those involved, but be sure to pass that wisdom on to someone else. You never know, it can be the difference in their life that they didn’t know they needed.” And that’s why I just feel like I can always continue to learn, but at the same time I can give back and help someone else, too.

1

Gonzalez02 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/20/2020

The Aced gave me the chance to be somewhere I would’ve never been able to get to without their help. They brought me in and treated me like family and showed me a different lifestyle than I was used to being around. They are a huge role in my life now, and I know I can always turn to them for anything.

1

jtakimoto Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/20/2020

I’ve had the privilege of volunteering at ACED for the last 10 years. You would be hard-pressed to find a more passionate and dedicated group of human beings. They are always willing to go above and beyond for the students and families they work with on a daily basis. They have the amazing ability to not only see the greatness in every individual, but to also help that person reach heights they never knew were possible. This organization is amazing and will continue to changes lives for many years to come.

1

Iamdarrion Client Served

Rating: 5

10/20/2020

This is a very special place because they provide kids with a place to go when maybe they do not have a place to go after school or they have a activity and just want to stay at the school. They provide a safe and fun place to go and spend time. The people who run this program are some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet, they truly care about each and every student that goes in or out those doors. They will help students and families anyway they can so the kid can have a good education. They give great food and drinks for the kids who maybe can’t afford lunch or are just hungry. They are just always there for people and take time out of their days just to make sure every kid is alright. These are some AMAZING people!

5

iamjasonharper Board Member

Rating: 5

10/24/2018

Alliance for Compassion and Education Development is phenomenal nonprofit that is making a great impact on urban students. They are strategic in their mission. They are transparent in their finance process. They are an organization that is a great place to give.

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