Resource:How to create a scholarship for disadvantaged communities

Meeting with Jahannie Torres gives anyone the inspiration to make the proper positive change in their community. As a Computer Engineer in Puerto Rico, she took note at how hard getting into Higher Education (HE) really was monetarily. Coming from a challenged area, she recognized that something had to be done, and created a scholarship program for students to help them reach a better education. In her own view, "If you give kids the proper education, they can open doors and really change the world". After numerous trials and tribulations, Jahannie has had great success with her program. There were a few steps that she wanted to emphasize that helped her get to where she is now.  

Gaining Funding:

(Talk about how important getting big and small business can be challenging)

An important lesson that Jahannie pointed out was to approach businesses that can relate to the scholarship you are trying to create. Choose local businesses that know the situation and know your story because if they understand, they will be more likely to donate. Being personal with your clients helps tremendously.

Don't limit yourself to just businesses, though. Ask professors and other faculty or personnel who share your passion. If they share your passion and you have a plan as well as good pitch, then don't assume they won't help. You miss every shot you don't take.

Go big, get a website. A website can allow your cause to reach so many more people. We live in a global society, so why not capitalize on it! Let people know what you're doing. Add a link to a Go Fund Me page as well. Every little bit can help.

Lastly, it may not seem ideal, but don't rule out your personal savings. Don't dry up your bank account, but don't rule it out either. You're asking others to donate to a cause you're passionate about, if you donate your own money, it will show you don't just talk the talk but you walk the walk.

Don't forget to give your donators recognition, too. Unless they request not to receive it, it is nice to do to show your appreciation. Building a strong community is important.

Type of Donations:

(Talk about the physical money (checks/ why use checks) and also about the school supplies)

When you ask for money from businesses, ask for them to give it as a check. Then you can give it directly to the kids' parents at the graduation ceremony. Then you can ensure the family knows what the money is meant to be used for. This is the method that Jahannie used which seemed to work very well. Another process could pool the money together and create a bank fund that is evenly distributed towards those who are in need of assistance.

If you do get other forms of money, put it into a bank account. Then you could utilize it for other resources towards the same goal. Jahannie uses the extra money to purchase school supplies to support other students educational needs. This is something to take special note in. To help kids in school, they mainly need two types of assistance: tuition reduction and some way to cover the physical school materials (notebooks, folders, etc.)

Know Your Cause:

Know what your doing and why your doing it.

Vision of her scholarship funding:

(Talk about the developments can be seen in 3 years)