THERESA — Theresa Rotary has created a Capital Scholarship Fundraising Campaign and is inviting the public in supporting the initiative.
The primary objective of the campaign is to fund a perpetual scholarship program.
“By contributing to our Capitol Scholarship Fundraising Campaign, you can directly impact the future of our community by investing in the education of our youth and fostering the growth of the next generation of leaders,” Jill Van Hoesen, secretary of Theresa Rotary said in a news release.
Theresa Rotary has a fundraising goal of $5,000 for the scholarship campaign. The organization will provide in perpetuity financial support to students pursuing higher education in various fields, including science, technology, engineering, mathematics and the arts. Its scholarships are exclusively available to Indian River Central students residing in the community. The selection of scholarship recipients is based on academic merit, community involvement and financial need. The committee carefully evaluates all applicants to ensure that the funds go to the most deserving candidates.
Traditionally, Theresa Rotary has awarded four $500 scholarships a year. The new model has one $500 scholarship, allowing a “perpetual” program..
Van Hoesen said that $5,000 needs to be raised or the current scholarship fund will run out of money after 15 years.
The first $500 scholarship under the new model will be awarded this year when one scholarship with will be given to an Indian River Central student.
Theresa Rotary has been a member organization of the Theresa community for over 75 years. “Over the years, we have been committed to providing scholarships to deserving students from the Indian River Senior Class who demonstrate exceptional potential and a strong dedication to their academic pursuits,” Van Hoesen said.
Checks to support the scholarship can be mailed to Theresa Rotary Club, 30634 County Route 22, Theresa N.Y., 13691.
Theresa Rotary members will also be at Memorial Day celebrations in the village, offering opportunities to donate. “We will be at Jezis Cafe as well as in the crowd for the parade,” Van Hoesen said. “We are hoping to pass the Rotary cup and collect donations that way.”