209 Together announces the second year of its Graduate Awards program. This program recognizes the achievements of two graduating seniors from each of the three public high schools in Proviso District 209. Through its partner, the Kiwanis Club of Forest Park Foundation, 209 Together presents three $1,000 award in each of two categories: Persistence Pays and Overcoming Adversity.
The goal of this endeavor is to spotlight the excellence and hard work personified by many of the students at our public high schools. Persistence Pays applicants should have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher and demonstrate consistent academic excellence throughout their high school career. Overcoming Adversity applicants should have a GPA of 2.0 or higher and demonstrate how their ability to overcome adversity will help them succeed in college. Students entering either 2- or 4-year colleges are welcome to apply.
“At its core the mission of Kiwanis is to help the youth of the world,” said club President Chris Harris, “and at the Forest Park Kiwanis Club we look to help all area youngsters in as many ways as we can. This program is an exceptional way to aid deserving kids heading off to college and we couldn’t be more proud to team up with 209 Together to make it happen.”
209 Together rep Ken Snyder added: “Students at Proviso District 209 have amazing stories of academic excellence and perseverance. They have created a path to higher education and a future for themselves, and as a community we should support them in every way we can.”
Applications are available from the guidance counselors in each school or by requesting one at 209scholarship@gmail.com. Applications are due no later than Friday, May 12. The awards will be presented to the recipients at a reception on Tuesday, Aug. 1.
Donations to the awards may be made payable to the Kiwanis Club of Forest Park Foundation and mailed to P.O. Box 514, Forest Park, IL 60130 or online at https://fundly.com/209together.
If you have any questions, please call 708-689-3180 or email 209scholarship@gmail.com.