Community foundation awards $1.1M in scholarships

What’s happening: The Grand Haven Area Community Foundation (GHACF) and its affiliates – Allendale Community Foundation and Coopersville Area Community Foundation – recently celebrated students from across the region who received scholarships through funds established by generous community donors. 

What’s the impact: This spring, over $1.1M in scholarships was awarded to 234 students through scholarship funds held by the Foundation. Scholarship recipients, their families, and the donors who make these opportunities possible were recognized during the annual Scholarship Ice Cream Social. 

Why it’s important: The scholarships support students pursuing a variety of educational pathways, including four-year universities, community colleges, trade schools, and certification programs. Awards are based on varying criteria, including academic achievement, financial need, field of study, community involvement,  leadership, and whether a student is the first in their family to continue their education after high school.

What they’re saying: “This is one of our favorite events of the year because it brings together students, families, and donors to celebrate the impact of education and philanthropy,” said GHACF President & CEO Hadley Streng.  “Each scholarship represents someone in our community choosing to invest in a student’s future, and it  is inspiring to see the opportunities that investment creates.”

What will this mean: This year’s awards included 50 first-generation scholarship recipients, 47 two-year awards, and 3 four-year awards. In addition to new awards, students receiving renewal installments from previously awarded scholarships were also recognized. 

“When students receive a scholarship from the Foundation, they are receiving more than financial assistance,” says Streng. “They are receiving encouragement from a community that believes in their potential and wants to see them succeed.” 

How does it work: The GHACF and its affiliates administer a wide range of scholarship funds created by individuals,  families, businesses, and organizations who are passionate about supporting educational opportunities for local students. Collectively, these funds help remove financial barriers, recognize achievement, and encourage students as they pursue their goals after high school.