Young adults with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status are hardworking, have a track record of great performance in their educational careers and are looking to achieve at the collegiate level. But, these DACA students do not have access to federal or private funds to pay for school.
Three years ago a board member of ours, Ross Pesek, came forward with the idea to provide scholarships. This is a primary example of what the Matters On Tomorrow platform is here for. Within hours of the idea we were working out plans of how to make it a reality. No complicated government paperwork or time consuming business entity setup. Ross recognized a need in his community and took action.
The growth and support of the community has been overwhelming since the beginning. The first year we provided 5 full tuition/fee scholarships to attend Nebraska and Iowa community colleges and last year we provided 7 scholarships. The third scholarship class for True Potential was awarded on June 16, 2016.
With the help of about 200 of our closest friends, community businesses and civic leaders, we awarded 19 scholarships!
This is how we build a stronger community and empower others. We provide them with the resources and tools to grow. Nebraska State Senator Heath Mello spoke at the event and discussed how we all have the responsibility to build and contribute. This is what we live by at Matters On Tomorrow – the responsibility to go out and contribute. We know these 19 individuals will pass it forward and build a better future for all of us.
True Potential Scholarships for the 2016-2017 school year:
Metropolitan Community College (7 students)
Central Community College (4 students)
Southeast Community College (3 students)
Western Nebraska Community College (1 student)
Iowa Western Community College (2 students)
Iowa Central Community College (1 student)
Northwest Iowa Community College (1 student)