KC Scholars provides the opportunity for college for those that likely would not have otherwise attended or completed. The program was incubated at the Kauffman Foundation and is now an independent 501c3 with a community-based board of directors. KC Scholars creates life-changing opportunities by providing the means – through scholarships and financial incentives to promote college savings – for low- and modest-income students and adults needing access to pursue and complete a postsecondary degree.
Initially, Byrne Pelofsky became involved with KC Scholars when we were brought on board to provide grant writing services and general fundraising development counsel. Consultants Barb Bloch and Lisa Pelofsky were so touched by the program’s mission and impact, they decided to get personally involved in the Named Scholarship Program.
Named Scholarships provide the opportunity for community investors to name the scholarship in honor of someone and/or the contributing individual or entity. This five-year financial commitment goes to a specific student’s education and helps support the student throughout their post-secondary education. It is a fantastic opportunity for the donor to build a personal relationship with their Scholar.
Lisa and Barb’s Scholars are currently students at Park University and the University of Missouri respectively. For them, the opportunity to see their generosity in action is the most rewarding part of this journey.
“As an alumnus, seeing my Scholar not only attend, but thrive at MU is so incredibly heartwarming,” says Barb. “KC Scholars has given me an opportunity to not only support my beloved alma mater, but see my money in action as it transforms the life of this amazing and intelligent young woman. I can’t wait to visit her in Columbia soon!”
Lisa and her siblings chose to sponsor a student in her parent’s name as a gift. “This gift means so much more to my parents than another recliner or gift card,” says Lisa. “As a family, we are so incredibly proud of what our Scholar has accomplished and we can’t wait to see where her education takes her.”
There are a myriad of ways to get involved with KC Scholars and change lives like Lisa and Barb. Become a donor (100% of donations go directly to scholarship support, enabling KC Scholars to award even more scholarships in future years), sponsor a Scholar through the Named Scholarship Program, or become a volunteer “Reviewer” and review student applications for the program. For more information on how to get involved, visit the KC Scholars Website.
