Believe it or not, the Springfield-Greene County Park Board Scholarship Fund does not send kids to college. At least, not directly.
It’s actually designed for younger kids, age 18 and under, who want to play soccer or take ballet lessons or go to summer camp.
The scholarship fund allows income-qualifying youth to participate in fee-based Park Board sports, before- and after-school programs, summer camps and other activities designed to build skills and confidence while maintaining healthy lifestyles.
Recipients must live in Greene County and qualify for free- or reduced-price school lunch qualifications (or meet similar income guidelines). Scholarships are awarded weekly, based on need and availability of funds. Annual limits have recently increased to $170 per child – enough for kids to try several different activities or stick with one throughout the year.
Since 2008, the fund has awarded more than 6,800 scholarships – helping hundreds of kids develop new skills, get exercise, boost self-confidence and have fun. Top requests include SPARC before- and-after school programs, summer day camps, pool passes, soccer, volleyball, basketball, tennis, t-ball and swimming lessons. A growing number of teens are using the scholarship fund to cover lifeguard training, giving them an employable skill and a way to make money over the summer!
Fundraisers like the Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk and the Price Cutter Charity Championship generate most of the scholarship funds. Private donations are also accepted – call 417-864-1049 or visit ParkBoard.org/Donate.
Studies show after-school programs and sports help boost kids’ academic performance. So chances are, in the end, the Park Board Scholarship Fund really is helping to send kids to college!
Scholarship applications are available at ParkBoard.org/Scholarships or at the Park Board’s Administrative Offices at 1923 N. Weller Ave., Springfield.