OneGoal Named Taco Bell Foundation Grant Recipient for Sixth Consecutive Year
Funding supports college and career advising for students in Texas and Georgia, part of the Taco Bell Foundation’s record $32 million in 2026 Community Grants
HOUSTON, TX and ATLANTA, GA, October 7, 2026—OneGoal, a national education nonprofit dedicated to transforming postsecondary advising and support, today announced it has received two 2026 Community Grants from the Taco Bell Foundation, totaling approximately $160,000. This funding will support OneGoal’s work in Texas and Georgia, helping thousands of students receive the college and career advising they need to pursue their goals.
This marks the sixth year OneGoal has been selected as a grant recipient. 2026 is the Taco Bell Foundation’s biggest Community Grants year yet: a record $32 million supporting 700 nonprofits nationwide, representing a 40% increase in nonprofit partners from last year. Fueled by fans who Round Up their Taco Bell order totals, the investment is creating more opportunities for young people through education, career readiness, mentorship, and youth empowerment.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the continued support from the Taco Bell Foundation, and in particular the JAI Restaurant Group here in Georgia,” said Taylor Ramsey, OneGoal’s Executive Director in Georgia. “Their support ensures more Georgia students will have an adult in their corner helping them turn ambition into a real plan for what comes next, whether that’s college, trade school, or certification program.”
Micah Melvin, Chief Operating Officer at JAI Restaurant Group, emphasized the personal impact of the collaboration. “I’m immensely proud of the strong partnership we’ve built with OneGoal alongside our dedicated JAI Taco Bell store leaders and the Taco Bell Foundation. The next generation is our heart and soul; they are our customers, our employees, and our future leaders. No cause is more important to our brand than supporting the passions and dreams of our youth.”
“When you think about how this started, with fans giving a little extra at checkout, it’s incredible to see that generosity grow into $32 million for organizations serving young people across the country,” said Morgan Tabor, Executive Director of the Taco Bell Foundation. “What I love most about Community Grants is how local they are. Taco Bell franchisees know these organizations, they believe in their work, and together we’re helping more young people see just how much is possible for their futures.”
This year, OneGoal serves approximately 1,500 students across the state of Georgia and another 6,100 students in Texas. The organization partners with dozens of schools in these states, training everyday educators to become high-quality advisors. Equipped with OneGoal’s proven curriculum, coaching, and professional development, these educators help students find their purpose, explore their options, and enroll in the path that fits them. After graduation, OneGoal offers a full year of continued support as students begin that next chapter.
“The Taco Bell Foundation continues to be a force for good across communities,” said Alex Dailey, OneGoal’s Executive Director in Texas. “With their support, we’ll reach more schools across Texas, in cities and small towns alike, and help set students up for career success and economic mobility.”
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About OneGoal
OneGoal transforms postsecondary advising and support so that every student can define their own future. Together with our partners, we’re building a movement to close the opportunity gap. We work side-by-side with partner schools and districts to build their knowledge and capacity. The result is more equitable and effective support for all students. Since our inception, OneGoal has reached 151,000 with our unique approach, honed over nearly 20 years, which prioritizes strong human relationships. And it’s proven to deliver real student impact. 80% of OneGoal high school graduates enroll in a postsecondary institution, and 72% of those who enroll persist one year after high school. An independent study by the University of Chicago found that OneGoal students are up to 40% more likely to earn their postsecondary degrees than students from similar backgrounds. For more information, visit onegoal.org.
About the Taco Bell Foundation
Taco Bell Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity that empowers the next generation to pursue their passions by breaking down barriers to education and providing resources to help young people chase their boldest ambitions. Since 1992, the Taco Bell Foundation has reached nearly 9 million young people across the country and has awarded more than $203 million in grants and scholarships, focused on education and career readiness. For more information about the Taco Bell Foundation, visit www.tacobellfoundation.org.
Media Contact
Alexa Solis Brown
Director of Regional Communications – Texas
alexa.solis@onegoalgraduation.org