FOREST PARK, IL April 6 2019 – 209 Together has announced a fourth year of scholarships for graduates of Proviso District 209 high schools Proviso East, Proviso West and Proviso Math and Science Academy. There are 3 categories of award: Persistence Pays, Overcoming Adversity and Returning Scholars, a fund for past recipients of the award.
18 scholarships have already been awarded since 2016, totaling over $20,000 in funds dispersed.
The 209 Together scholarship had its origins in community partnership between 209 Together, a coalition of parents in District 209 who wanted to build bridges between the public high schools and communities who are part of the district, and Kiwanis Club Foundation of Forest Park, which as a 501c3 nonprofit organization acted as a fiscal agent, and provided critical early support for the scholarships.
209 Together is now organized as its own non-profit in the state of Illinois and will begin administering the scholarships directly beginning this year. To honor the partnership that came before, 209 Together is welcoming a board member from Kiwanis to remain on the scholarship selection committee as well as selecting one awardee annually to be the Kiwanis Club of Forest Park scholar.
The applications are available upon request by emailing 209scholarship@gmail.com or at the counselor’s office at each high school. There are two scholarships: Persistence Pays applicants should have a GPA of 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.
Applications are due by Monday, April 20th.
Following up on the rooftop event that took place at Urban Pioneer Group last June, 209 Together will once again hold their event Great Chefs Feeding College Dreams in the same location. The date is set for Thursday, June 27th. If you are interested in being on the planning committee or supporting the effort you may reach out to 209scholarship@gmail.com.
