KC Scholars is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 2016 with the mission to increase college access and completion for low- and modest-income students in the Kansas City region. The organization provides scholarships, support services, and community partnerships to help students achieve their educational goals and become leaders in their communities.
The KC Scholars program offers scholarships to students in the nine-county Kansas City region pursuing an associate’s, bachelor’s, or technical degree. Students can apply for scholarships starting in their 9th-grade year and continue receiving funding throughout their college career as long as they meet specific eligibility requirements. The scholarships cover tuition, books, fees, and other educational expenses and are renewable for up to five years.
In addition to providing financial support, KC Scholars offers support services to help students succeed in college, including college and career counseling, academic coaching, financial literacy education, and leadership development opportunities. The organization also partners with colleges and universities to provide additional resources and support to KC Scholars students.
One of the unique aspects of KC Scholars is its focus on community engagement. The organization works closely with local employers, community organizations, and other stakeholders to ensure that KC Scholars graduates are well-prepared for the workforce and can make meaningful contributions to their communities. KC Scholars encourages students to give back to their communities through service projects and other volunteer opportunities.
Since its inception, KC Scholars has awarded over 5,000 scholarships to students in the Kansas City region. The organization has also established partnerships with over 80 colleges and universities and has engaged with numerous employers and community organizations to support its students.
The impact of KC Scholars has been significant. According to the organization’s website, 92% of KC Scholars recipients persist in college or have completed their degrees, significantly higher than the national average for low-income students. Additionally, 83% of KC Scholars recipients work in the Kansas City region after graduation, helping fuel the local economy and support their communities.
Overall, KC Scholars is making a significant contribution to the Kansas City community by providing access to education and supporting the development of future leaders. Through its scholarship program, support services, and community partnerships, KC Scholars is helping to break down educational barriers and create a more equitable and prosperous future for all.
Photos via KC Scholars FB