What is Dollars for Scholars?

Underwood Dollars for Scholars is a locally operated and supported, non-profit, tax-exempt 501(c)3 scholarship foundation.  Operated by all-volunteer Board of Directors, the purpose of Dollars for Scholars is to expand access to educational opportunities by involving and assisting our community in the support of students and in the encouragement of educational achievement.

 Underwood Dollars for Scholars is a chapter affiliate of Scholarship America, a nationally recognized nonprofit student aid service organization.

 

Why is Dollars for Scholars so important?

Rising costs are closing doors to higher education for many individuals in our community.  Through Dollars for Scholars we have the opportunity to make a strong, collective statement about the importance of education beyond high school.   We can provide both encouragement and financial support to our local students.

Who may apply for a scholarship?

Dollars for Scholars believes any sincere and determined person should have the opportunity to continue his or her education after high school graduation.   Scholarships can be for two-year, four-year, or vocational and technical colleges.

  

How are funds provided?

Each year our community is invited to demonstrate their support for local students through a variety of fundraising activities.  Funds also come from the generous support of local businesses, service organizations, and individuals who desire to sponsor scholarships to honor or in memory of someone or in their own name.

For those who wish to establish endowed scholarships, Underwood Dollars for Scholars may be named as a beneficiary in wills and insurance policies or receive gifts of property.

 

Are there advantages of giving scholarships through Dollars for Scholars?

Yes.  Some colleges (Collegiate Partners) agree to not diminish a student's financial aid by the amount of Dollars for Scholars scholarships.  In addition, there are additional colleges that will give an additional matching scholarship (Collegiate Matching Partners).

 

How are scholarships awarded?

By completing one common application form, students become eligible for several local awards.  Volunteers serving on the Awards Committee score applications.  The anonymous Applicants receive points for a variety of qualities, including work experience, school and community service activities and academic record.  In this way, the selection process is objective and nondiscriminatory making scholarships available to a wide range of deserving students planning to attend an accredited post-secondary institution.

How Can I help?

Anyone in the community can help Underwood Dollars for Scholars in two ways:

Make a contribution:

We encourage you to give as generously as you can, but be assured that any and all gifts are appreciated.  Your contribution of $10, $100, or $1000 reflects your pride in our students and your commitment to the on going education of the young people of our community.

   

 Share your time, talents and ideas:      

We intive your help with any of our fund-raising events throughout the year.  we also invite you to share your ideas you have for new approaches to encouraging community participation in Underwood Dollars for Scholars.  Together through Underwood Dollars for Scholars, we have an opportunity to invest in our greatest resource, our youth.  Together we really can make a difference!  We normally meet 3rd Mondays each month during the school year at 7:00 p.m. in the High School Conference Room.  Questions please contact any Underwood Dollars for Scholars member.