The Junior Woman’s Club of Verona is just one small club within a much larger organization-The GFWC. The GFWC, or General Federation of Women’s Clubs, announced on October 1st that applications are now being accepted for the organization’s Success for Survivors Scholarship. This unique opportunity encourages intimate partner abuse survivors to reclaim and rebuild their lives by advancing their academic pursuits through a $2,500 scholarship.
“GFWC has a 123-year history of enhancing the lives of others through community improvement and volunteer service,” explained GFWC International President Mary Ellen Laister. “The GFWC Success for Survivors Scholarship makes a difference in the lives of intimate partner abuse survivors around the country by helping them pursue their education and career dreams.” Junior Woman’s Club of Verona President, Kristen Donohue stated, “It would be wonderful if this scholarship was able to help a survivor in our area. Many of us don’t realize what our neighbors or friends may have endured in the past. This scholarship is a testament to the courage, strength, and faith needed to exit those abusive relationships and look towards the future.”
In June 2013, GFWC awarded $20,000 in scholarships. The scholarships are funded through generous donations from GFWC members, partners, and friends to the GFWC Signature Project: Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Fund.
“According to studies, a higher education can help survivors obtain careers and provide a brighter future,” stated GFWC Signature Project Chairman Chris Sienkielewski. “We are grateful for our generous donors who positively impact individuals’ pursuit of education and independence.”
Survivors of intimate partner abuse seeking higher education to advance their careers, train for a new career, or reenter the job market are encouraged to apply for the GFWC Success for Survivors Scholarship. Candidates must be enrolled or planning to enroll at an accredited post-secondary or vocational institution. In addition, candidates must be recommended by a licensed or accredited domestic violence agency, counselor, and/or social worker.
The scholarship application deadline is January 31, 2014. For more information and to download the application, visit www.GFWC.org/Scholarship.
If you or someone you love is involved in an abusive relationship, please call 1-800-621-4673 for help.
