PAEF looks back on successful 2018, makes scholarships available for 2019
Scholarship Opportunities listed at the bottom of this story
GRANITE COUNTY - Philipsburg Area Education Foundation (PAEF) awarded scholarships worth $22,000 to 18 outstanding students at its 18th Annual Scholarship Reception in May 2018. This reception represented the culminating activity of a year-long scholarship process and measured the Foundation’s progress in fulfilling its mission to support the efforts of Granite County residents engaged in educational activities.
PAEF held three fundraisers in 2018. The first was in cooperation with the Philipsburg Brewery: we held a pint night. We thank Kathy and Nolan Smith, who show their generosity every week by offering non-profits opportunity to make money for their causes. The second was a fry-bread concession at the music festival in August. We thank the Rotary Club for including us in this great fundraiser for non-profit organizations. Last, we held a “Giving Tuesday” online fundraiser in conjunction with Facebook and PayPal. Proceeds from these three events will fund scholarships for students attending post-secondary education. These funds, along with many scholarships offered in February, may be used for college or vocational training tuition and fees.
In September, we partnered with the Granite County Medical Center to offer a FREE training program for three areas of medical service: medical assisting, emergency medical services and veterinary assisting. This program consists of online coursework, hands-on learning activities, volunteer service and field trips. The program is delivered through field experts and online courses at Helena College; other activities are scheduled for group and individual instruction. Upon completion, residents are prepared for job application or entry to a higher level of medical training. Funding for this year’s program was made possible through the Steele Reese Foundation – 2018 Idaho and Montana Grant Program $20,000. Eligibility includes any Granite County resident who earns less than $25,000 annually and high school students (16 years and older). There are 15 to 20 openings for training. To apply, contact Program Coordinator, Kristi Mainwaring at (406) 210-7228 or mainkris1@gmail.com. There’s still time to enroll for online courses – through December 30, 2018.
In October, we offered grant funding to teachers and trainers in Granite County for educational projects. We were happy to award a grant to P’burg Roots Preschool Program for 3 and 4 year-olds. The funds will enable owner Rachel Parret to purchase tables and chairs, easels, a first-aid backpack, books and age-appropriate toys.
In July, we expanded our Board of Directors with the addition of Vicki Burgmeier, a Drummond community representative. As her daughters are moving into the next stage of their lives, Vicki wants to give more of her time to community service. We are happy she wants to join PAEF’s efforts to provide educational opportunities to Granite County residents.
Come on — be part of the movement!
Volunteer or think about becoming a donor.
Our PAEF Board of Directors manages funds and activities throughout the year; and notably, they receive no money for their services. These are community members who believe their service and contributions of time and energy will improve the quality of our citizens’ lives. Currently, we are seeking more representation from Drummond and Helmville. If you have an interest in serving your community as a PAEF representative, please contact: Tom Hood 859-3789 or Sue Huffman 859-0141.
PAEF continually seeks donors and funding to improve Granite county residents’ quality of life through education and training. An endowment fund was established through donations to ensure the foundation’s ability to offer financial assistance well into the future. The endowment is administered through the Montana Community Foundation (MCF), an organization established by the Montana Legislature to promote giving in Montana through organizations and similar non-profits. Each year, PAEF offers scholarships and grants based on investment income from MCF and direct donations received from individuals and organizations throughout the year.
The majority of our funds are generated through direct donations. Some are one-time gifts; some are on-going scholarship funds. Some are in cash; others are in materials for fund-raising events. Donors have the opportunity to define how they want the money distributed for education – to specific scholarships or to the general fund to be disbursed by the Board of Directors. On behalf of the many students who have used PAEF funds to further their education, we appreciate your contribution!
All Granite County residents are eligible to apply for scholarships each year through an application process.
A scholarship committee assesses the applications and then funds are awarded based on established criteria. Some awards are made based on financial need; some are based on career interests, and all consider good character and potential for academic success. Check the PAEF website for current-year scholarship awards. Available scholarships and contests are posted in February. Residents can download application forms or check with high schools counselor for forms.
Scholarship Funds Available for 2019
Please note some scholarships are for Granite COUNTY students; some are for Granite HIGH SCHOOL students. Some scholarships give preference to a certain type of training. Some scholarships are for all Granite County residents or students; some are for current graduates. Visit www.paefmt.com for applications and requirements.
Marletto Family Scholarship: up to two scholarships ($5000 in total) for Granite County students to engage in post-secondary education. Financial need is a primary criterion. Preference is given to a current year graduate. Proof of financial need is required.
PAEF Board of Director’s Scholarship: at least $1000 for a Granite County resident to engage in post-secondary education or training. Character and academic potential are primary criteria.
Warren Anders Service Recognition Scholarship: at least $1000 for a Granite County student to engage in post-secondary education or training. Character and academic potential are primary criteria. Preference will be given to returning students – those enrolled in 2nd year or more.
Tom Hood Leadership Scholarship: at least $1000 for a Granite County student to engage in post-secondary education or training. Character and academic potential are primary criteria. Preference will be given to returning students – those enrolled in 2nd year or more.
Commander Bernard J. O’Rourke Scholarship: $1000 for a current-year graduate of Granite High School to engage in post-secondary education. Applicants should read Commander O’Rourke’s biography at PAEFMT.com. An extra essay is required for this scholarship – it should state how the Commander’s life and achievements influences your life goals and career choices.
Rose and Thomas Brogan Scholarship: at least $1500 for a Granite County student who has attended college for at least one year and is majoring in Business, Economics or Mathematics.
Eik Family Scholarships: two scholarships at $500 each for Granite County students to engage in post-secondary education with preference given to current seniors pursing vocational training.
Jon Manke Memorial Scholarships: two $250 scholarships – one for Drummond High School and one for Granite High School – for graduates majoring in the healthcare field; preference given to nursing students. And four $500 scholarships for returning college students in healthcare – must be 2nd year or greater – two for upper valley and two for lower valley residents.
Will Wyatt Memorial Scholarships: two $500 scholarships – one male and one female graduating senior from Granite High School engaging in post-secondary education or training.
Molteni Scholarship: $500 scholarship for a Granite County student preparing for a career in healthcare.
Leipheimer Family Scholarship: $1000 for a Granite High School graduate (current or past) to engage in post-secondary education with preference given to a student pursing vocational training.
Keith Graybeal Memorial Scholarship: $250 scholarship contest for Granite County 7/8th graders requires 250-500 word essay based on benefits of living in a small town.
PAEF Essay Contest 9/10th grade: $250 scholarship contest for Granite County 9/10th graders requires 500 word essay -- 1 or 2-year Technical Certification versus 4+-year University Degree.
PAEF Essay Contest 11th grade: $250 to $500 scholarship contest for Granite County 11th graders requires a 10-hour community service project and 500 word essay based on benefits of community service. $250 is available for Drummond High School and $250 for Granite High School.
Bales Family Good Samaritan Awards: two monetary awards for students who demonstrate characteristics of a Good Samaritan in school -- one for Drummond High School and one for Granite High School. Candidates shall be selected by school staff and then voted on by the senior class at each school..
