The Ichigo Foundation looks for ways to bolster access to and success in higher education and other post-secondary endeavors for first-generation and low-income students. We believe in opportunity, justice, and inclusion, and partner with institutions that support young people to pursue productive and fulfilling lives.
“Ichigo” comes from an ancient Japanese proverb, Ichigo Ichie, literally meaning “One lifetime, one encounter.” The phrase was first used by a 16th century tea ceremony master, Sen no Rikyu, who called on his disciples to give total focus and sincerity to each act of the tea ceremony, because that particular moment will only exist once and must be fully lived and realized.