East Central Dollars for Scholars

East Central Dollars for Scholars is a locally operated and supported, non-profit, tax-exempt scholarship foundation. Operated by an all volunteer Board of Directors, the purpose of East Central 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.

East Central Dollars for Scholars is a chapter affiliate of Scholarship America®, the nations largest private sector scholarship and educational support organization. They strive to strengthen the world one student at a time.

Why is East Central 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 for local students.

How are funds for local awards provided?

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

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

Who may apply for a scholarship?

East Central Dollars for Scholars believes any sincere and determined person should have the opportunity to continue his or her education after graduation. Scholarships can be for two-year, four-year, or vocational and technical colleges. ACT test scores and transcripts must be made available for parts of the application.

How are local scholarships awarded?

By completing a common application from, students become eligible for several awards. Applicants are scored anonymously by trained volunteers serving on the awards committee. Applicants receive points for a variety of qualities, including work experience, school and community 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 you help?

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

1. 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, $20, $50, $100, $500 or $1,000 reflects your pride in our students and understanding for the need of ongoing education of the young people of our community

2. Share your time, your skills, and your ideas. We invite you to help with any of our fundraising events throughout the year. 

We also invite you to share any ideas you have for new approaches to encouraging community participation in East Central Dollars for Scholars.  Together, through East Central Dollars for Scholars, we have the opportunity to invest in our greatest resource, our youth. Together we really can make a difference.