About Us 

The ASH Foundation

Scholars of Life are students beyond the classroom—inquisitive minds dedicated to continuous learning through experience, service, and reflection. This term empowers those who embrace growth wherever it finds them: in their communities, connections, challenges, and victories. Education is not a destination, but a lifelong journey of discovery and intention.

#AllThingsASH

The Aspiring Scholars and Hustlers Foundation was created to honor our beloved Ashley Andrade Cardoso, whose life was grounded in love and intention.

Anchored in her legacy, the ASH Foundation is a recognized 501c3 nonprofit organization centered around youth, community and service. 

Mission Statement

Our mission is to empower students to become “Scholars of Life” by embracing their daily hustle and dedicating themselves to lifelong learning. We are committed to uplifting the next generation through academic scholarship, mentorship and personal development initiatives. We envision a world where youth are empowered to dream boldly, rise beyond limitations and build fulfilling futures for themselves and their communities.

Values

Our work at the ASH Foundation is grounded in three core values: Access, Service and Hope. These principles guide our mission toward investing in youth and our community. We know that meaningful change happens when we work together—amplifying youth voices, addressing inequities, and building lasting connections that strengthen communities from within.

A — Access

We believe every youth deserves access to opportunities that support their personal, academic and professional growth. We are commited to creating equitable pathways so youth can thrive regardless of background or circumstance.

S — Service

Our work is grounded in service for others. We uplift youth and communities by showing up intentionally, building connections and creating programs aimed at fostering meaningful change.

H — Hope

Together, we envision and work toward a future where hope leads the way. We believe in the aspirations of our scholars and their power to create lasting change in their communities. Each action we take today is a purposeful investment in the leaders of tomorrow.

Goals and Vision

We believe that when youth are supported in their personal growth and development, they become powerful agents of community change. Our goals are rooted in helping the next generation reach their full potential, with the guidance, resources, and opportunities they deserve. We recognize that strong communities are built through collaboration, and we are committed to fostering environments where both youth and community thrive together.

We aim to:

  • Award scholarships and financial support to scholars pursuing higher education, recognizing their strengths, determination and aspirations

  • Cultivate meaningful mentorship opportunities that provide scholars with support as they navigate academic, personal, and career challenges

  • Organize empowering community events that uplift youth, build connections and generate increased funding to directly reinvest in youth-centered programs and services

We envision a world where youth are empowered to rise beyond barriers to become the future leaders their communities need. By centering the aspirations of youth, the ASH Foundation is building pathways towards access, service and hope.