Trent-Gillespie Scholarship
Formed to honor the memory of Volunteers of America president Ken Trent and longtime board member Jim Gillespie, the Trent-Gillespie Memorial Scholarship benefits homeless or formerly homeless teens who have completed at least one year of community college or university study.
The scholarship provides the opportunity for Crosswalk scholars continue their studies through graduation by providing assistance with tuition and/or living expenses, books or childcare. Recipients may also receive Guaranteed Education Tuition (GET) credits toward their tuition.
Crosswalk teachers assist applicants in writing a letter describing their goals, their financial needs and what they have learned about themselves. The scholarship committee meets individually with each applicant to review their financial needs and sources of income (including financial aid and work study) before determining gift amounts based on their needs and goals.
Recipients must submit budget proposals and receive their gift amount in monthly stipends. Students are also required to submit registration records, transcripts and progress reports each quarter. The scholarship also includes budget planning and other supports to help young students develop self-sufficiency and develop financial security and independence.