FUNDS AVAILABLE FOR THOSE SEEKING HIGHER EDUCATION

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts is accepting applications to award more than $2 million in scholarships and interest-free loans available to local students planning to pursue education at the undergraduate and graduate levels for the 2007-2008 academic year. Over 95 funds will provide awards considering academic merit, residency, interests, ethnicity and financial need.

Access to these 95 distinct scholarships and loans can be achieved through completing one online application available at www.communityfoundation.org. Applications and all supporting materials must be postmarked by March 31, 2007. January winter vacation break is the perfect opportunity for residents of western Massachusetts who will continue their higher education next fall to complete this application.

Many of the funds support students with special interests in areas including academics, athletics, Hispanics, average achievers, and musicians, to name a few.

In 2006, the Community Foundation awarded scholarships and loans to over 700 traditional and non-traditional students in the region. Scholarships range from approximately $500 to $8,000, and students may apply for interest-free loans of up to $3,000.

The Community Foundation works closely with Bank of America on select funds, and administers the MassMutual Scholars Program fund along with additional education funds.

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts is committed to supporting the charitable work in our region by providing the vital connection between donors and organizations in Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties. For more information about the Community Foundation, please call (413) 732-2858 or visit www.communityfoundation.org