The impact of scholarships on underserved communities

Scholarships have the power to transform the lives of individuals from underserved communities. Education is a key factor in breaking the cycle of poverty and scholarships provide the financial assistance necessary to make education accessible to those who may not otherwise be able to afford it.  Exploring the impact of scholarships on underserved communities allow us to see the ways in which they can contribute to creating a more equitable and just society.

KC Scholars is one of the most effective college scholarship and support programs in the nation. KC Scholars provides three types of scholarships: college savings accounts (9^th graders); traditional scholarships (11^th graders), and scholarships to adult learners who want to secure an industry recognized credential or return to college to secure their associate or bachelor’s degree.

Access to Education

One of the primary benefits of scholarships is that they increase access to education. Many individuals from underserved communities face significant financial barriers to attending colleg. Scholarships provide financial assistance that can cover tuition fees, books, and other expenses, making higher education a realistic option for those who may not have considered it otherwise. By providing financial assistance, scholarships can help individuals from underserved communities break down the barriers that limit their access to education.

Higher Education Attainment

Scholarships can also increase the number of individuals from underserved communities who obtain a college degree. This can have a transformative impact on their lives and the lives of their families. A college degree can create a wider range of job opportunities and increase earning potential, providing individuals with the tools they need to break the cycle of poverty. Higher education attainment can also have a positive impact on mental health and overall well-being, as individuals who obtain a college degree are more likely to have a sense of purpose and direction in life.

Empowerment

Scholarships can also empower individuals from underserved communities by providing them with the tools they need to succeed. Scholarships often come with mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and other support services that can help students navigate the post-college experience. This support can be particularly valuable for individuals who are the first in their family to attend college. By providing a support system and the resources necessary to succeed, scholarships can empower individuals to achieve their goals and create a better future for themselves and their families.

Community Development

Finally, scholarships can have a positive impact on the broader community by creating a more educated and skilled workforce. Individuals from underserved communities who obtain a college degree are more likely to contribute to their communities in meaningful ways, whether by starting a business, working in a high-skill job, or engaging in community service. This can help create a more vibrant and prosperous community, attracting new businesses and industries that can create jobs and drive economic growth.

Scholarships have the power to transform the lives of individuals from underserved communities. By providing financial assistance and support. Scholarships can increase access to education, promote higher education attainment, empower individuals to succeed, and contribute to community development. Scholarships are an investment in the future of our society, creating a more equitable and just world for all. We must continue to invest in scholarships and other programs that promote social and economic mobility, ensuring that everyone has the same opportunity reach their full potential no matter their life circumstance.

KC Scholars is unique because most students graduate debt free, and because of the intensive supports provided to our scholars, the vast majority of our scholars graduate from college, or their credentialing program, and enter good careers. Students who are low- and moderate-income and reside in our six focal counties in the Kansas City Area (Kansas and Missouri) are eligible to apply. Over 90% of our scholars persist annually, and 75% of our traditional scholars are on track for on-time graduation. KC Scholars currently over 6,000 scholars, and awards approximately 750 new scholarships annually. Our goal is to significantly expand our program and its impact in the coming years.

College scholarship recipients receive up to $50,000 ($10,000/year across five years) to attend one of the 17 colleges and universities in the KC Scholars Postsecondary Network. Please visit www.kcscholars.org today to learn more!