Since its founding in 1970, the Chapter’s 210 members have raised over $13.4 million for 2,035 scholars attending six northern California universities. For the 2008-09 academic year, $784,000 will be distributed by the Chapter to 67 scholars. In addition, designated gifts have been an important source for a growing endowment fund, which now exceeds $3.5 million.

The day-to-day administration of ARCS_® is handled by a corps of member volunteers augmented by a small professional staff. Administrative costs are donated or covered by member dues, thus allowing 100% of all contributions to be disbursed to scholars.

The Northern California Chapter is one of 14 chapters nationwide. Membership stands at over 1,400 and members lead the fundraising, establish policy, and oversee the fiduciary responsibilities of the organization. Since 1958, the 14 ARCS chapters have awarded over $61.7 million to 11,540 scholars at 43 recipient schools nationwide. Awards are made on the basis of merit and need without regard to race, gender or religious preference.