Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Gadsden State Cardinal Foundation
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: PO Box 227
City: Gadsden
State: Alabama
Postal Code: 35902
Main Phone: 256-549-8200
Main Fax: 256-549-8344
Organization Website: www.gadsdenstate.edu/cardinalfoundation
Employer ID Number: 46-0730246
Organization Tax Status: 501 ( c ) ( 3 ) Non-profit

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: February 11, 2025
Requested Amount: $10,000

Project Title: Dual Enrollment Books & Fees Scholarships
Project Description:

As educational opportunities grow, dual enrollment programs at Gadsden State Community College have emerged as a pivotal pathway for high school students to advance their academic and career goals. However, the financial barriers associated with these programs, particularly for students from low-income backgrounds, can significantly hinder their ability to participate. We are seeking to establish scholarships specifically for books and lab fees for high school dual enrollment students, prioritizing those who qualify for free or reduced lunch. This initiative aims to bridge the financial gap, empower students, and enhance their educational trajectories. The transition to post-secondary education is often accompanied by various financial obligations. Students enrolled in dual enrollment programs at Gadsden State must cover costs for textbooks, lab fees, and other educational materials, which can be prohibitively expensive. For students from low-income households, these costs can represent a substantial barrier to participation. According to recent data, a significant percentage of students in our local high schools qualify for free or reduced lunch, indicating a high level of financial need within our community. By providing targeted scholarships, we aim to alleviate these financial burdens and encourage academic engagement among our most vulnerable students. By providing these scholarships, we anticipate the following outcomes: 1. Increased participation. More students from low-income backgrounds will be able to enroll in dual enrollment programs at Gadsden State, thereby expanding their academic horizons. 2. Improved academic performance. With access to necessary materials, students will be better equipped to succeed in their courses, leading to higher grades and increased confidence. 3. Long-term educational impact. Students who participate in dual enrollment are more likely to pursue higher education. By supporting their current studies, we are investing in their future success.

Total Project Budget: $250,000.

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Pending Foundation requests: Samford, Miller, Blount, Watson, Griffin, Lowe, Sonneborn, Hamilton, Bailey, Young, Russell.

Project Duration: On-going
Geographical Area Served: Etowah, Calhoun, Cherokee, Cleburne, and St. Clair counties in Alabama.
Age Group To Be Served: 16-19

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Elizabeth
Contact Last Name: Wheatley
Contact Title: Grant Writer
Contact Phone: 256-549-8233
Contact Email: ewheatley@gadsdenstate.edu