Congratulations Peyton! You did it!

It has been a sincere honor watching Peyton thrive and grow in her roles within our organization this year and it’s with HUGE pride that we say “congratulations Peyton! You did it!” Peyton is graduating this summer from Western Washington University, completing her internship with us, and is starting a brand new career adventure! Peyton has been pivotal in our organization’s success in incorporating new workshops with DVR, virtually mentoring students, and tackling some of the less glamorous tasks such as grant-writing and data entry. In fact, Peyton shines in everything she does, and constantly leaves us in awe as we watcher her lead and organize many teams with confidence. Peyton is also fun (serious Skribbl.io skills), a great team player, and someone who currently does and will continue to do amazing work in our community. We sat down with Peyton to talk more about this giant milestone and her thoughts on everything from feelings of completion to next steps. We are so excited to cheer on Peyton as she takes her next steps into her career and know we will see the wake of her impact in our community for years to come.

Q: First of all, how does it feel to have reached this huge accomplishment?

Every time I reflect back on all that I have accomplished and have done over the past two years it feels surreal. It has all become a blur but standing where I am right now I am feeling happy, energized, and excited about where life is going to take me next. 

Q: What advice would you give other students who are either thinking about college or in the process of completing a degree?

For those thinking about college, please do not listen to the societal pressures to jump into a program that you do not feel fits what you want to do. Community college is a great place to try something new and discover what might fit best for you, and even if that doesn’t provide answers, there is no shame in taking time off to figure out your next steps. Knowing that you have your life ahead of you to try multiple careers and new things takes the pressure off and allowed me to enjoy the process and know that human services was the right major for me. 

Q: What did you wish you would have known as you navigated higher education?

I wish I would have known all my different options for financial aid and what supports were out there within the school systems to not feel alone. Being an only child with not a lot of support on navigating higher education, I had to search far and wide for answers and stumbled hard along the way figuring everything out. FAFSA is something that allowed me to pursue education and I learned about that through friends. 

Q: How did completing your Financial Aid application help you reach your goals?

I would not have been able to pay for school without Financial Aid. Although it still means loans it means that I was able to shoot my shot and go for a career that I didn’t know was even possible. 

Q: What will you miss the most about college?

The community. Covid really shook up the dynamics of the classroom and the college experience, but all the amazing people that I have met along the way and the community that we have built is something that cannot be recreated. 

FNW Teammates Stefanie, Peyton and Cynthia jump for joy, graduating this Spring and Summer from WWU.

Q: What is a favorite memory you have from your time at FuturesNW?

My favorite memories from FuturesNW are our team meetings and Fun Time Fridays. The amounts of love, joy, and laughter that we shared made me feel less alone and made me feel that I was doing what I was meant to be doing. That leads me to a specific memory where I was helping a student in Tuesday Pathways Support where I was helping her figure out how to sign up for classes and see what registration looked like at WCC, and that is when it clicked for me that my passion is to work in enrollment and admissions at a Community College. 

Q: What’s your next chapter looking like? 

My next chapter will definitely include working with underrepresented populations in some capacity whether that be career exploration, basic housing and food support, education pathways, you name it. I love working with high school students and college students and I hope to be working with this population for a long time to come. They are our future, how amazing is that!

Congrats, Cynthia! We're So Proud of You!

Wow- where do we even start?! Cynthia has been a trailblazer this year with our organization developing/leading new programs; hosting our First Gen Fridays podcast and lead of the First Gen Navigators Program. Cynthia is a thoughtful leader and advocate, and when supported will accomplish anything she sets her mind to. In all the work she does, Cynthia centers student experiences in our community and helps them find resources and support to achieve their dreams. Cynthia’s vision for the future and drive for creating better systems will make her an asset to any team she joins. We are excited to see where Cynthia ends up after graduation, but one thing is certain- she will make a positive impact wherever she goes. In addition to this beautiful interview, Cynthia is also a featured student on the Ready WA blog (English, Spanish, Vietnamese) if you want to learn even more about her experience! Below, Cynthia has been generous to share her experiences with us, leaving another piece of her legacy for us to celebrate.

Q: First of all, how does it feel to have reached this huge accomplishment?

Knowing that I actually went to college, am getting a degree and graduating is crazy! I was never able to envision myself going to university so it is a surreal feeling. It is a huge accomplishment and I am super excited but I am also scared of the unknown, this is something I highlight in the First-Gen Fridays podcast. I have had jobs before but now I feel that I am equipped with skills to go into my career which is something completely new to me. Since I am a first-generation student I feel like I am doing the process of going to college all over again but this time it's getting into the world of working. There will be so many things that I do not know but I am excited about the new things I learn along the way. 

Q: What advice would you give other students who are either thinking about college or in the process of completing a degree?

If you are a student interested in going to college, definitely do your research. Look into the schools you are interested in and look at what majors they offer and the classes with that major. You want to look into their dorms if you are interested in living there, clubs or an ethnic student center for community, and the requirements of that college in order to attain a degree and graduate. An important thing to remember is that different majors, colleges, or programs have different requirements so it's crucial to look into those requirements and talk it over with the department head/adviser of the program you are interested in. Many students worry about the pricing of university, in my circumstance I am low income and did struggle financially my first year at university. If I were to do things differently I would have definitely gone to a community college first to knock out the core class requirements and then just transferred over to a university, it would have saved me a lot of money and better prepared me. One thing I did during my process of completing my degree is getting a second opinion. I utilized my adviser when I came in asking about classes I still needed and what I should be taking the next quarter. I often felt confused or would catch something that didn’t make sense so I would ask another faculty member in the department to look over my schedule. Other faculty members would find mistakes so I am glad I trusted my gut instinct, I saved myself from taking pointless classes and prolonging my time at university.   

Q: What did you wish you would have known as you navigated higher education?

Everything! Coming into college I had no idea how college worked, how they assigned classes, what classes look like. I wish I had someone who was a current student to talk about their experiences and the things they learned along the way. I also wished the university would have advertised their services better, like resources for first-generation students, BIPOC students, mental health, and financial support. As a first-generation student and having no knowledge at all, I didn’t know where to go for these resources or if they existed. I think universities should improve their outreach and advertising of resources to first-generation students. First-generation students will not seek out support if they don’t know what they are supposed to be looking for.   

Q: How did completing your Financial Aid application help you reach your goals?

Without filling for FAFSA my senior year in high school and every year I was in college, there would be no way I could have afforded to go to college. I was fortunate to receive the College Bound Scholarship and a bunch of other grants to pay for most of my education, the rest I paid out of pocket but it was an amount that I could manage. Completing a financial aid application can be crucial for many students, even if you don’t think you will get anything it doesn't affect you in any way to just apply and see if you receive some form of money. 

Q: What will you miss the most about college?

What I’ll miss most is springtime on campus. The flowers and cherry blossoms start to bloom and the sun is coming out. Walking after class with music playing was one of the most relaxing parts of my days.

Q: What is a favorite memory you have from your time FuturesNW?

The supportive environment with the Futures NW team is something I will always cherish. I have never been in a position where my input and ideas were taken seriously. Everyone was so supportive and amazing to work with, our meetings were always the best to attend and was something I always looked forward to every week. 

Q: What’s your next chapter looking like?

I have learned so much through my internship and the lasting connections I have made with my students. I am currently struggling with job searching as there are not many positions that are opened due to the pandemic, but I remain hopeful that I can continue supporting students in reaching their educational dreams through college and career readiness. 

Congratulations Stefanie, you did it!

It has been a sincere joy watching Stefanie thrive and grow in her roles within our organization this year and it’s with HUGE pride that we say “congratulations Stefanie! You did it!” Stefanie is graduating this spring, and is the world in for a treat when Stefanie steps into a full-time position in the human services profession! Stefanie has been pivotal in our organization’s success in incorporating social media as a resource our families can access. She has also been a mentor with us for Financial Aid events, at Lynden High School students, and helping out wherever she is most needed. When the pandemic hit, Stefanie was flexible and found creative ways to get information to our families, and has been a champion of accessible information sharing as the leader of our social media team. Stefanie is a person that leaves you feeling more whole and loved after spending time with her, as if she sees the best parts of your soul and reflects them back to you. It’s qualities like these and more that assure us that she will make a deep impact wherever she lands. We sat down with Stefanie to talk more about this giant milestone and get her thoughts on everything from feelings of completion to next steps. We are so excited to cheer on Stefanie as she takes her next steps into her career and know we will see the wake of her impact in our community for years to come.

Q: First of all, how does it feel to have reached this huge accomplishment?

Unreal, I’m in tears even just thinking about the fact that I’ve made it. 

Q: What advice would you give other students who are either thinking about college or in the process of completing a degree?

As a first-generation student of color, these systems aren’t always made for us, but that doesn’t mean we can’t fight them. You know yourself better than anyone else, advocate for yourself and for your beliefs. No lie, some days or even weeks are going to be so challenging and mentally draining and you’re going to want to give up. Heck, you’ll probably think about dropping out at least 5 times within however long it takes to complete your program. BUT YOU GOT THIS. YOU CAN DO THIS. Find what makes you happy and build off that. 

Q: What did you wish you would have known as you navigated higher education?

Use your first quarter as a practice and see what learning styles you enjoy! Figure out how your brain best processes information and create those good study habits. Also, try and find a good outlet for you to unwind! Allow yourself at least one hour a day to work out, dance around to music, art, time to yourself, whatever it may be. In your first quarter, try and join some clubs if you can too! Coming from a Mexican background where interdependence is culturally ingrained versus most Western cultures of individualism, I found so much support starting my junior year of college when I had more P.O.C friends who connected with the struggle of in a sense feeling like you left your family behind. Or even being the first in your family to navigate all these new systems, it's a lot, find those you can relate to and create a community with. 

Q: How did completing your Financial Aid application help you reach your goals?

Even if you don’t think you’ll get any money, APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID. Financial aid can help alleviate some of the pressure in paying for tuition and housing (as well as school supplies, technology, equipment-if needed for specific programs). Trust me, I’ve lost my financial aid in some quarters due to bad grades and it is such a game-changer when you don’t have to work 40 hours to support yourself. Plus applying for financial aid makes you eligible for some scholarships and grants, another form of financial funding. A few tips I have is to create budgets for yourself, don’t buy textbooks from the school but rather see if your school or program offers book exchanges, even ask fellow classmates in your program if they have books from previous courses. 

Q: What will you miss the most about college?

Being in the Human Services program! I’ve learned the most about myself being a part of this program’s community. I felt so inspired by all my classmates and felt like I belonged there. 

Q: What is a favorite memory you have from your time at FuturesNW?

Our weekly team meetings for sure! I loved seeing everyone through zoom and hearing about all the projects they're working on. Plus we just created such a tight-knit community that I felt so safe and comfortable with which I think is important to have in college. 

I also loved the virtual financial aid events in the fall! It gave the opportunity for families to attend virtually rather than in person which some may have not had the opportunity to do. It helped eliminate barriers and offer multiple opportunities for families to get support with filling out FAFSA and FAFSA applications. 

Q: What’s your next chapter looking like? 

A lot of exploring! I’ll be staying at my restaurant job for the next couple of months while I take the time to myself that I need. A lot of my summer will be spent hiking, hanging out with my family, and planning for my next steps. Down the road, I’d love to look for jobs working with students in a high school or college setting. 

GEAR Up Bulletin

SCHOLARSHIPS & OPPORTUNITIES

Find more opportunities at: https://gearup.wa.gov/resources/scholarships and our list of scholarship search engines and databases.

Scholarship

Brief Description

Due

Navigate Your Future Scholarship

For HS graduates continuing his or her education in the aviation industry.

6/25

Do-Over Scholarship

In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "If you could get one 'do-over' in life, what would it be and why?"

6/30

Scholarship Poetry Contest - Fall Issue

Open to all U.S. HS students. Applicant must submit an original poem with 20 lines or less. Up to $500.

6/30

Stuck at Prom Scholarship Contest

Use your imagination to create Duck Tape prom fashions in either the “Dress” or “Tux” category for a chance to win $10,000!

7/21

ERCA Community Contribution Scholarship

For HS students who have recognized a need or problem in their community and have determined a way to address the issue.

7/26

Flavor of the Month Scholarship

In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: If you were an ice cream flavor, which would you be and why?

7/31

Make Me Laugh Scholarship

In 250 words or less Describe an incident in your life, funny or embarrassing (fact or fiction), and make us laugh!

8/31

We the Future Contest

Open to K-12 students, college students, law school students, grad students, adults 25 years of age and older, and seniors 65 years of age and older. Each age group has different requirements, so applicants should visit website for details. Amount varies.

9/17

Don’t Text and Drive Scholarship

($1,000) - Write a 140-character statement that completes this sentence: I pledge to not text and drive because…

9/30

Scholarship Poetry Contest - Winter Issue

($100-$500) - Applicant must submit an original poem with 20 lines or less.

9/30

Shout It Out Scholarship

($1,500) - In 250 words of less submit an online written response to the question: If you could say one thing to the entire world at once, what would it be and why?

9/30

SCHOLARSHIPS & OPPORTUNITIES

Find more opportunities at: https://gearup.wa.gov/resources/scholarships and our list of scholarship search engines and databases.

Have Scholarship

Brief Description

Due

Navigate Your Future Scholarship

For HS graduates continuing his or her education in the aviation industry.

6/25

Do-Over Scholarship

In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "If you could get one 'do-over' in life, what would it be and why?"

6/30

Scholarship Poetry Contest - Fall Issue

Open to all U.S. HS students. Applicant must submit an original poem with 20 lines or less. Up to $500.

6/30

Stuck at Prom Scholarship Contest

Use your imagination to create Duck Tape prom fashions in either the “Dress” or “Tux” category for a chance to win $10,000!

7/21

ERCA Community Contribution Scholarship

For HS students who have recognized a need or problem in their community and have determined a way to address the issue.

7/26

Flavor of the Month Scholarship

In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: If you were an ice cream flavor, which would you be and why?

7/31

Make Me Laugh Scholarship

In 250 words or less Describe an incident in your life, funny or embarrassing (fact or fiction), and make us laugh!

8/31

We the Future Contest

Open to K-12 students, college students, law school students, grad students, adults 25 years of age and older, and seniors 65 years of age and older. Each age group has different requirements, so applicants should visit website for details. Amount varies.

9/17

Don’t Text and Drive Scholarship

($1,000) - Write a 140-character statement that completes this sentence: I pledge to not text and drive because…

9/30

Scholarship Poetry Contest - Winter Issue

($100-$500) - Applicant must submit an original poem with 20 lines or less.

9/30

Shout It Out Scholarship

($1,500) - In 250 words of less submit an online written response to the question: If you could say one thing to the entire world at once, what would it be and why?

9/30

Community Resource Newsletter

Please click anywhere below to access full version and linked content.

All past newsletters can be accessed on the CRN web page at whatcomabc.org/CRN

GEAR Up Scholarship Bulletin!

SCHOLARSHIPS & OPPORTUNITIES

Find more opportunities at: https://gearup.wa.gov/resources/scholarships and our list of scholarship search engines and databases.

Scholarship

Brief Description

Due

WA State Opportunity Scholarships: Career &Technical Scholarship

For those pursuing high-demand trade, STEM, and health care occupations. To be eligible, scholars must enroll in an approved program, such as welding, manufacturing, or it, at one of WAs 34 community and technical colleges. Scholars are eligible to receive up to $1,500 each quarter for the duration of their associate degree, certificate, or apprenticeship program. These scholarship funds are flexible and can be used to cover tuition, fees, and other costs of attendance such as housing, transportation, food and more.

6/6

Navigate Your Future Scholarship

For HS graduates continuing his or her education in the aviation industry.

6/25

Do-Over Scholarship

In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "If you could get one 'do-over' in life, what would it be and why?"

6/30

Scholarship Poetry Contest - Fall Issue

Open to all U.S. HS students. Applicant must submit an original poem with 20 lines or less. Up to $500.

6/30

Stuck at Prom Scholarship Contest

Use your imagination to create Duck Tape prom fashions in either the “Dress” or “Tux” category for a chance to win $10,000!

7/21

ERCA Community Contribution Scholarship

For HS students who have recognized a need or problem in their community and have determined a way to address the issue.

7/26

Flavor of the Month Scholarship

In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: If you were an ice cream flavor, which would you be and why?

7/31

Make Me Laugh Scholarship

In 250 words or less Describe an incident in your life, funny or embarrassing (fact or fiction), and make us laugh!

8/31

We the Future Contest

Open to K-12 students, college students, law school students, grad students, adults 25 years of age and older, and seniors 65 years of age and older. Each age group has different requirements, so applicants should visit website for details. Amount varies.

9/17

Don’t Text and Drive Scholarship

($1,000) - Write a 140-character statement that completes this sentence: I pledge to not text and drive because…

9/30

Scholarship Poetry Contest - Winter Issue

($100-$500) - Applicant must submit an original poem with 20 lines or less.

9/30

Shout It Out Scholarship

($1,500) - In 250 words of less submit an online written response to the question: If you could say one thing to the entire world at once, what would it be and why?

9/30

Community Resource Newsletter

Please click anywhere below to access full version and linked content.

All past newsletters can be accessed on the CRN web page at whatcomabc.org/CRN

Community Resources Newsletter

Please click anywhere below to access full version and linked content.

All past newsletters can be accessed on the CRN web page at whatcomabc.org/CRN

GEAR Up Scholarship Bulletin

SCHOLARSHIPS & OPPORTUNITIES

Find more opportunities at: https://gearup.wa.gov/resources/scholarships and our list of scholarship search engines and databases.

• AISES Scholarship Webinar Series. Every Friday during May. Each webinar is open to everyone and will go over a crucial part of applying for scholarships, an intro into scholarships currently available, and an open Q & A.



Scholarship

Brief Description

Due

HENAAC Scholarship

Applicants must be of Hispanic origin and/or must significantly demonstrate leadership or service within the Hispanic community.

5/28

NAEHCY Scholarship Fund

For students experiencing homelessness.

5/28

1-800-Wheelchair Scholarship Fund

Please submit a 'visual poem', in a style of your choosing, on the theme of overcoming a personal challenge.

5/30

UW Young Executives of Color Program

Nine-month college pipeline program hosted by UW.

5/31

American Indian College Fund Full Circle Scholarship

Scholarships available to students attending non-tribal colleges.

5/31

Fifth Month Scholarship

In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "May is the fifth month of the year. Write a letter to the number five explaining why five is important. Be serious or be funny. Either way, here's a high five to you for being original."

5/31

SEA-MAR - Farm Worker Scholarship

For students who work or have worked OR, whose parent/legal guardian is or has worked as a farm worker.

6/1

Wilson-Hooper Veterinary Medicine Assistance Program

For native students pursuing a degree in Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or Veterinary Technology (Associates of Applied Science Degree).

6/1

WA State Opportunity Scholarships: Career &Technical Scholarship

For those pursuing high-demand trade, STEM, and health care occupations. To be eligible, scholars must enroll in an approved program, such as welding, manufacturing, or it, at one of WAs 34 community and technical colleges. Scholars are eligible to receive up to $1,500 each quarter for the duration of their associate degree, certificate, or apprenticeship program. These scholarship funds are flexible and can be used to cover tuition, fees, and other costs of attendance such as housing, transportation, food and more.

6/6

Navigate Your Future Scholarship

For HS graduates continuing his or her education in the aviation industry.

6/25

Do-Over Scholarship

In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "If you could get one 'do-over' in life, what would it be and why?"

6/30

Scholarship Poetry Contest - Fall Issue

Open to all U.S. HS students. Applicant must submit an original poem with 20 lines or less. Up to $500.

6/30

Stuck at Prom Scholarship Contest

Use your imagination to create Duck Tape prom fashions in either the “Dress” or “Tux” category for a chance to win $10,000!

7/21

ERCA Community Contribution Scholarship

For HS students who have recognized a need or problem in their community and have determined a way to address the issue.

7/26

Flavor of the Month Scholarship

In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: If you were an ice cream flavor, which would you be and why?

7/31

Make Me Laugh Scholarship

In 250 words or less Describe an incident in your life, funny or embarrassing (fact or fiction), and make us laugh!

8/31

Welcome to the Team, Ashby!

We are thrilled to introduce you to our newest team member, Ashby McCoy. She is working with us through a year-long, master’s-level internship at Tulane University.

Q: Can you start off by telling us a little bit about yourself?

A: I am originally from a small Western Massachusetts town. I let my love for adventure and working with youth take me around the world. Since graduating from the College of Charleston in South Carolina where I studied Art’s Management and Environmental Sustainability, I have worked as an outdoor educator and instructor in Alaska, Montana, and New Hampshire. Looking to deepen my experience and skills in social-emotional learning and experiential education, I moved to Maine to work at a Leadership School, and then to Jackson, WY to pursue place-based education at Teton Science Schools. Finding a passion for youth development, I joined the Peace Corps and served in Morocco as a Youth Development Specialist teaching English and life skills to Moroccan youth. As Covid cut my service short, upon returning to the States I worked as a Program Coordinator for the Boys and Girls Club in Missoula, MT. I am currently pursuing a Masters of Social Work at Tulane University and just moved to Bellingham after spending the winter in Teton Valley, ID. I am excited to explore my new community and join the Futures Northwest team!

Q: What is one piece of advice you wish you could have given your college self in hindsight?

A: I would tell myself to not take my surrounding community for granted. I have always had “the grass is greener mentality”, always looking to the next thing. Coming from a rural, progressive area of Massachusetts, I never felt I “fit in” to the southern city of Charleston, South Carolina. My first year I wanted to transfer, and then found my people in crew. My senior year, my best and happiest year in college, I was planning and looking forward to my adventures post-graduation. Looking back on my time in college, I wish I enjoyed the place I was living and the people in it. College can be a self-involved time, looking ahead to your future and career, but it can also be a time of self-growth and finding your passions. I wish in college I had taken more opportunities and risks, and was more involved. I wish I had relished in the opportunity of education and community, the opportunity to explore who I was and the world around me.

Q: What would your friends and family say is your biggest strength?

A: I think what my family and friends would say is my biggest strength is my ability to connect with other people, to find commonalities and joy. They would say the lens I look at the world through and the way I seek adventure makes me unique, and the reason they love me. When in doubt, laughter is the answer.

Q: What are you most looking forward to at FuturesNW?

A: I am most looking forward to being a part of a community, and to having a voice in it. The opportunity to be involved and to be an active participant in a community is a privilege. Having just moved to the Bellingham area, I am excited to have FuturesNW as a connection to the community and to being a part of it!

Career and Technical Scholarship announcement!

Apply now for the Career and Technical Scholarship provided by the Washington State Opportunity Scholarship program! The Career and Technical Scholarship (CTS) provides Washington state residents with $1,500 per quarter towards an eligible associate degree, certificate, or apprenticeship in a trade, STEM or health care field. Funding can be used at any Washington state community or technical college and can be used to cover tuition, fees, and other costs of attendance such as housing, transportation, food, and more. Apply now! Visit waopportunityscholarship.org to learn more.

Community Resource Newsletter

Please click anywhere below to access full version and linked content.

All past newsletters can be accessed on the CRN web page at whatcomabc.org/CRN

GEAR Up Scholarship Bulletin

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

SCHOLARSHIPS & OPPORTUNITIES

Find more opportunities at: https://gearup.wa.gov/resources/scholarships and our list of scholarship search engines and databases.

Scholarship

Brief Description

Due

HENAAC Scholarship

Applicants must be of Hispanic origin and/or must significantly demonstrate leadership or service within the Hispanic community.

5/28

NAEHCY Scholarship Fund

For students experiencing homelessness.

5/28

1-800-Wheelchair Scholarship Fund

Please submit a 'visual poem', in a style of your choosing, on the theme of overcoming a personal challenge.

5/30

UW Young Executives of Color Program

Nine-month college pipeline program hosted by UW.

5/31

American Indian College Fund Full Circle Scholarship

Scholarships available to students attending non-tribal colleges.

5/31

Fifth Month Scholarship

In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "May is the fifth month of the year. Write a letter to the number five explaining why five is important. Be serious or be funny. Either way, here's a high five to you for being original."

5/31

SEA-MAR - Farm Worker Scholarship

For students who work or have worked OR, whose parent/legal guardian is or has worked as a farm worker.

6/1

Wilson-Hooper Veterinary Medicine Assistance Program

For native students pursuing a degree in Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or Veterinary Technology (Associates of Applied Science Degree).

6/1

WA State Opportunity Scholarships: Career &Technical Scholarship

For those pursuing high-demand trade, STEM, and health care occupations. To be eligible, scholars must enroll in an approved program, such as welding, manufacturing, or it, at one of WAs 34 community and technical colleges. Scholars are eligible to receive up to $1,500 each quarter for the duration of their associate degree, certificate, or apprenticeship program. These scholarship funds are flexible and can be used to cover tuition, fees, and other costs of attendance such as housing, transportation, food and more.

6/6

Navigate Your Future Scholarship

For HS graduates continuing his or her education in the aviation industry.

6/25

Do-Over Scholarship

In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "If you could get one 'do-over' in life, what would it be and why?"

6/30

Scholarship Poetry Contest - Fall Issue

Open to all U.S. HS students. Applicant must submit an original poem with 20 lines or less. Up to $500.

6/30

Stuck at Prom Scholarship Contest

Use your imagination to create Duck Tape prom fashions in either the “Dress” or “Tux” category for a chance to win $10,000!

7/21

ERCA Community Contribution Scholarship

For HS students who have recognized a need or problem in their community and have determined a way to address the issue.

7/26

Flavor of the Month Scholarship

In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: If you were an ice cream flavor, which would you be and why?

7/31

Make Me Laugh Scholarship

In 250 words or less Describe an incident in your life, funny or embarrassing (fact or fiction), and make us laugh!

8/31

Community Resource Newsletter

Please click anywhere below to access full version and linked content.

All past newsletters can be accessed on the CRN web page at whatcomabc.org/CRN

Introducing Sam Martinez, our newest board member!

Welcome to the team Sam!

We are thrilled to have you join our wonderful board and can’t wait to learn more about you.

Can you start off by telling us a little bit about yourself?

After growing up in Colorado and Idaho, I made my way to Bellingham to attend Western Washington University, where I studied Economics and Spanish. At WWU, I also had the opportunity to work in the Admissions Office, where I started to learn about access (and barriers) to higher education. Since graduating, I have worked at the Whatcom Community Foundation, where my role spans from hunger relief, to impact investing, to children's savings accounts. I'm excited to be a part of the FuturesNW board and to work to improve educational access and economic empowerment.

What is one piece of advice you wish you could have given your college self in hindsight?

Go to office hours, meet your professors, and get to know people in your classes. My biggest mistake in college was trying to be too independent and not ask for help. Even when that strategy worked out for me, I still missed chances to connect with people that I could have built relationships with. 

What would your friends and family say is your biggest strength, or what do they love most about you?

I hope they love my sense of humor! Or, at least I hope they can tolerate it. And, I think my biggest strength is to 'lead from behind', i.e. to keep things moving regardless of how small or big, glamorous or not, the task is. 

What are you most looking forward to as a board member for FuturesNW?

While I love the big-picture and behind-the-scenes work that I get to do on a daily basis, I miss connecting and working directly with students and families. I'm excited for opportunities to work directly with folks; to share my experiences; and to learn from the experiences of the folks that FuturesNW works with. 

Thanks so much Sam for sharing! We are so excited and delighted to have you on our board!

the FuturesNW team