A Note from Rosisella Blakney, Senior Manager, Scholarship & Grantmaking Services:
It’s that time again when scholarship opportunities for the next school year open. Every year, I am amazed by our donors’ generosity in providing opportunities for educational advancement for students in Kansas City and beyond. Scholarship support is more important than ever as the cost of post-secondary education increases. In both Kansas and Missouri, 34% of students have a $0 estimated family contribution on the FAFSA. This means these students are shouldering the financial responsibility entirely on their own.
If you are a student, I hope you’ll fill out the general application and see the scholarship opportunities you are eligible to apply for. Don’t leave money on the table that could be used to help you!
If you are in an educator role, I hope you’ll help us spread the word to students in your life. There are hundreds of scholarship opportunities available with a wide range of criteria.
In case you missed it, check out our feature about our scholarship program on KCTV5 Cares→
Questions? Contact scholarships@growyourgiving.org or 816.627.3436.
Helpful Tips for Applicants
How to get started:
- Create an account at gkccf.academicworks.com. Be sure to use an email address that you will have access to after you graduate from high school, as we will communicate with you via email.
- Complete the general application. Based on your answers, we will provide you with a list of scholarships you qualify for and can apply for.
Consider preparing ahead of time:
- Obtain at least two letters of recommendation from teachers, coaches, etc.
- Write a personal statement featuring qualities about you that stand out.
- Acquire an electronic copy of your unofficial transcript.
- Complete the FASFA when it is available.
About Our Scholarship Opportunities
The Greater Kansas City Community Foundation administers hundreds of scholarship opportunities for students in and around the Kansas City area. Donors who establish scholarship funds determine the criteria for their scholarship awards. Through scholarship funds, donors provided $4.6 million in direct assistance to more than 2,000 students for the 2022-2023 school year.
Interested in establishing a scholarship fund? Learn more here.