Scholarship launched for adults volunteering in Big Brothers Big Sisters programs

Scholarship launched for adults volunteering in Big Brothers Big Sisters programs

Adults who participate in volunteer work may have a better chance of earning scholarships. Financial aid programs exist for individuals of all demographics, however, there are many opportunities for community service volunteers to earn grants and scholarships for online education.

For example, volunteers and employees of the Big Brothers Big Sisters programs in Dutchess, Orange and Ulster counties in New Jersey are eligible for a 25 percent tuition discount and waiver of application fees for online masters and bachelor programs at Marist College, PoughKeepsieJournal.com reports. Family members of Big Brothers Big Sisters employees are eligible as well.

The discount is designed to help adult student volunteers who have been unable to attain higher education or who wish to complete a degree. Online schools are often the most convenient option for adult learners, as web-based programs allow the flexibility of anytime access to coursework.

"In addition to providing a wonderful educational benefit to our volunteers, former Little Brothers and Sisters will now be encouraged to return to school to seek that degree they passed up because they were in such a hurry to get out into the workforce to provide for their families," said Colleen Mountford, president of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ulster County.

Many online colleges and universities provide scholarships to students enrolling in their programs. Financial aid opportunities often increase for adults who are over 22 years of age.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, scholarships can range from small amounts up to the full cost of tuition. Government agencies, private institutions and public companies set aside money each year to be awarded as scholarships for students in need.

By Mark Danson