Safe Children Coalition awards scholarships to Achievers

On Saturday, June 26, the Safe Children Coalition’s Achievers program awarded college scholarships to recent high school graduates as well as returning college students who were engaged with the program as teens. Approximately 30-35 scholarships of $1,000-$2,500 were awarded.

A welcome was offered by Dave Luebcke, Safe Children Coalition’s senior director of programs. Achievers program manager, Jone Williams, acknowledged students who achieved certain levels of program participation and community service as well as “PUSHY Parents” who have volunteered on behalf of the program as well as encouraged their children to participate at a high level.

The Achievers program empowers at-risk, minority and other disadvantaged students to set and achieve goals in both their educational and personal lives, encouraging continuous growth in the areas of personal development, college preparation, community service and leadership, cultural enrichment, and career options. The program, which has served the community for over 30 years, is open to all middle and high school students in Sarasota County.

Approximately 200 students were involved with the Achievers program this past year. The program ultimately increases student participation in school programs, decreases school absenteeism and dropout rates and prevents delinquent behavior.

For more about the Safe Children Coalition, visit sccfl.org.