Dr. Kathy Simon Abels established the Southern-California based Simon Family Foundation (“SFF”) in 2010, after serving on the Board of Directors and staff of what was formerly known as the Ronald Simon Family Foundation (currently “Simon Foundation for Education and Housing”) since its inception in 2003. Together with her father, founder Ronald Simon, and the executive staff of the original Foundation, Dr. Abels utilized her background in Clinical Psychology to help develop the Simon Scholars Program, an intensive, mentoring college-prep initiative.

Since 2003, over 400 Simon Scholars have been awarded scholarships that include financial and academic support, as well as leadership and life-skills training. In recognition of its impact, the Foundation was named the 2009 Scholarship Provider of the Year by the National Scholarship Providers Association. The Simon Scholars model is being used in chapters established by the Simon Foundation in Georgia, New Mexico and Washington, D.C. , and is being endorsed via partnership with General Colin and Alma Powell’s America’s Promise Alliance, in order to encourage nationwide expansion.

The Simon Family Foundation has its headquarters in San Clemente, California and currently serves youth in both Orange and San Diego Counties. In addition to operating its Simon Scholars Program, the Foundation supports additional causes that enhance educational and cultural opportunities for youth in search of higher learning.