Why It Matters

IEA’s Trek for Talented Youth is a national fundraiser and local celebration that brings together families, alumni, educators and supporters to help gifted, talented and high-ability youth thrive. Every dollar raised supports IEA programs—and 50% is allocated directly to financial aid, helping more students access transformational learning experiences.

Too many gifted and talented students are unidentified and have no access to the services they need. An estimated 3.6 million gifted and talented youth in the United States from all socioeconomic backgrounds are being overlooked in schools, left to struggle silently in classrooms not designed for the way they think, feel, and learn.¹ Without access to programs that nurture their potential, these students risk disengagement, anxiety, and underachievement—not due to lack of ability, but because their needs remain unseen.

By participating in the Trek for Talented Youth, you’re not just raising funds—you’re helping change lives. Whether you walk with us in Pasadena or join from your hometown, you are advancing our shared mission: to help bright young minds reach their potential.

Together, our steps move students forward.

Our Impact

Thank you to our Sponsors, Supporters and In-Kind Donors

High Top Heroes
$5,000

Lee-Lichtenstein Family | The Priest Family | Robert and Mona Reppa | Quoc and Huyen Truong

Runners League
$2,500

Kenneth and Michelle Hirschman

Trainers Team
$1,000

Sneaker Society
$500

Skater Squad
$250

Supporters & In-Kind Donors

FAQs

What are processing fees and do I have to cover them?

Credit card companies and banks charge businesses including nonprofit organizations processing fees to facilitate electronic transactions. Fees vary based on payment type.

As a donor, you can choose to cover these processing fees so that more of your donation will go to nonprofits like IEA to support their mission.

What is Givebutter's platform tip and do I have to pay it?

Givebutter is a free donation platform for nonprofit organizations. It is offered for free thanks to the 100% optional tips they receive from donors. Read more about Givebutter's optional tips policy here.

See full FAQs for Trek for Talented Youth

Questions?

Contact Jane Laudeman at JLaudeman@EducationalAdvancement.org or call (626) 403-8900.

Trek for Talented Youth

Support Gifted and Talented Learners in Pasadena and Nationwide

Team Leaderboard

Team Members