Opportunity Fund:
Breaking Barriers, Building Futures

The Opportunity Fund was established to help cover the hidden costs of college that would otherwise prevent Green Dot alumni from attending and/or staying enrolled in a four-year university. 

This flexible grant supports the unexpected but important costs needed for college success: from technology to transportation, dorm supplies, and more.

Celebrating 25 Years of Transforming Education for All

For 25 years, Green Dot Public Schools has been committed to opening doors of opportunity for students from historically underserved communities. Our mission doesn’t end at high school graduation — it continues as we help alumni succeed in college, leadership, and life!

Why the Opportunity Fund Matters

For many low-income students, financial aid still leaves hidden costs uncovered, costs that can make or break their ability to attend or remain enrolled at a four-year university.

The Opportunity Fund, founded in 2019 by Alexis Rappaport and Mike Royce, was created to bridge that gap.

Since then, the Opportunity Fund has:

  • Awarded nearly $500,000 in grants, covering the “hidden costs of college” that scholarships often don’t — like application fees, laptops, dorm supplies, and transportation
  • Helped more than 600 Green Dot alum successfully transition to college and matriculate when traditional scholarships left unexpected gaps

Powered by Community Support

 Every dollar raised for the Opportunity Fund goes directly to students. Powered entirely by privately raised donations from supporters like you – and not our general operating budget, this fund is managed exclusively by Green Dot, not a third party administrator with operating fees.

Your generosity ensures that Green Dot alumni can pursue their education with confidence, persistence, and the knowledge that their community believes in them.

Countless Futures Transformed

“ The Opportunity Fund was more than financial support — it felt like Green Dot saying, ‘We’ll hold your hand through this.’ Because of it, I was able to create a space that reflected who I am and gave me comfort after hard days. Even hours away from home, I could feel my Green Dot family cheering me on, reminding me I was never alone in this journey. ”
- Rachelle Vasquez
“ Being far from home and grappling with imposter syndrome during my first year made it difficult to adjust, especially as I faced the financial burden of being away from home and providing for myself. The Opportunity Fund significantly alleviated the financial stress of this transition, allowing me to focus on my academic success. “
- Araceli Rodarte
“ Much of my motivation comes from my family. I grew up in Guatemala before my father worked hard to bring us to the U.S. We faced many challenges — even living apart for a while — and I had to learn a new language at a young age. Those experiences taught me perseverance and the importance of making the most of every opportunity to honor my family’s sacrifices. Receiving this laptop came at the perfect time — it means so much and helps me keep pushing forward toward my goals. "
- Flordeli Cano Aguilar

Join Us in Building a Lifetime of Impact

As we celebrate 25 years of Green Dot, we invite you to invest in the next generation of changemakers. Together, we can ensure every student has what they need to thrive!

For more information about our organization, please visit us at greendot.org.

© 2026 Green Dot Public Schools

🚨 We are pleased to announce that all Green Dot campuses have reopened. Our teams have worked hard to ensure a safe and clean environment for your children. Masks will be available  for students and staff who need them, but we ask that you send your student to school with a mask if you have masks at home.

For a detailed update, read our full blog post.

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