Beat the Odds is an annual event that celebrates youth who have overcome tremendous odds to become personally and academically successful. The purpose of the program is to raise awareness of the struggles of many youth in our community and recognize their ability to overcome difficulties.

The event also provides an opportunity to highlight the support networks and people who reach out to help. For local businesses and leaders it is an opportunity to help college bound students achieve their dream by supporting this fundraising event.

2009 will be the ninth annual Beat the Odds Scholarship awards program. Local students will be selected to receive $2500 or $1000 scholarships to attend the accredited college of their choice.

We are currently seeking applications for Beat the Odds Scholarships. Criteria for the awards are:

1. The student must be a SENIOR in high school by fall 2008.
2. The student must be on track to graduate from high school in June 2009.
3. The student must have plans to attend a post-secondary school.

Completed applications will include a Nominator form including an essay, and a Student application with essay (see forms below). Applications must be submitted by October 15, 2008. Interviews will be conducted this fall with selection and notification completed by late November.

A banquet will be held January 29, 2009 to honor the selected recipients and their nominators. It is expected that each student and their nominator attend the banquet and represent Beat the Odds in media and publicity prior to the event. A videotape featuring the students’ stories will be shown at the event.

Application Forms:

• Nominator Form (PDF*) NOTE: Nominations are for students who will be graduating from high school in June 2009.

• Student Application (PDF*)

Contact Information:

Jean Jech
Foundation Director
Jean.Jech@roch.edu
Office: 281-7770
Fax: 507-285-7496