About Us
Discover our mission to empower children through education.
Our Mission
The mission of the Reda Educational Foundation (REF) is to provide need-based financial support to qualifying, motivated, first-generation students who do not qualify for full-ride scholarships to college. Additionally, REF contributes financial assistance to several secondary school programs that provide tutoring and other support to disadvantaged students needing extra help to achieve the academic level required for college admission. We aim to enable these students to pursue higher education with minimal or no student debt. REF is also committed to connecting them with mentorship opportunities and workplace internships, complementing their educational scholarships.
Apply For A Scholarship
We want to partner with the ambitious, the dreamers, the individuals that know they can achieve great things if they just had some help
Become A Partner
You can make a positive difference in the lives of our students through mentor programs, financial scholarships, or even workplace internships.
REF Board of Directors
We appreciate those individuals below that have agreed to dedicate their time to participate on our Foundation Board.
Executive Board
Sam Reda Jr.
Jack Reda
Paul Miller
Advisory Board
Angel Reda
Barbara Reda
Chip Toth
Chris Abrams
Howie Fleischer
Jeff Keyes
Karen Reda
Katy Reda
Mike Peck
Mike Reda
Rich Reda
Ross Reda
William O’Donnell
How we got started
Foundation Origins
Photo Credit: McKenzie Ensminger
The Reda Educational Foundation was born from a heartfelt vision shared by brothers Sam and Jack Reda—to honor their father, Sam Reda, Sr., and create a lasting legacy that connects future generations to their family's patriarch. Sam Reda, Sr. was the first in his family to attend college, paving the way for countless others. After earning his degree, he excelled as a teacher, accountant, and insurance broker, inspiring his siblings, children, and grandchildren to pursue higher education. His dedication and achievements transformed the lives of many, and the Reda brothers established the Foundation to carry forward his legacy by helping individuals access quality education and change their lives for the better.
The Pillars of Our Foundation
Reda Family History
Sam Reda Sr.
The Reda Educational Foundation is dedicated to supporting scholarship recipients who embody the determination and resilience of Sam Reda, Sr. As the first member of the Reda family to attend and graduate from Pittsburg State University (Class of 1933), Sam's journey is a testament to perseverance and the transformative power of education. Having immigrated from Italy, he began first grade speaking only Italian, yet he overcame this challenge to build a successful career in teaching, accounting, and insurance. His example inspired generations of his family to pursue higher education. The Foundation seeks to empower students across all disciplines, helping them not only achieve their academic goals but also inspire future generations to embrace the life-changing opportunities that come with education.
Make a Difference Today
Your contribution matters. Support our cause by making a donation.
Every dollar counts and helps us bring hope, joy, and essential resources to those in need. Together, we can create a better tomorrow.
Tax-deductible Contributions:
Reda Educational Foundation is a
501(c)(3) Charitable Foundation
TAX ID: 93-3001788
Our Vision
By providing financial support and resources, Reda Educational Foundation is dedicated to helping underprivileged students overcome barriers to higher education and achieve their academic and career goals.
- Foster Academic Success: Offer scholarships, mentorship programs, and academic counseling to help students succeed in their college studies and graduate on time.
- Promote Social Equity: Ensure that talented students, regardless of their socioeconomic background, have an equal opportunity to attend college and achieve their full potential.
- Build Community Partnerships: Collaborate with schools, local organizations, and corporations to create a network of support for students and raise awareness about the importance of education.
- Inspire Future Generations: Empower scholarship recipients to give back to their communities, fostering a culture of philanthropy and service that benefits future generations.