'Dine & Donate' Feb. 2-3 supports Bloomingdale Chamber's expanded scholarship offerings
Bloomingdale Chamber of Commerce's next "Dine & Donate" will be on Wednesday and Thursday, Feb. 2-3, at ANYWAY'S American Grill & Pub, 304 W. Army Trail Road in Bloomingdale. When you mention the chamber scholarship fundraiser, a percent of the purchase will be given to the chamber's scholarship program.
The chamber is committed to providing a connection from classroom to career by developing tomorrow's leaders through their annual scholarship program.
Applicants must be either a member (or child of a member) of the Bloomingdale Chamber of Commerce or a current resident of Bloomingdale.
Multiple scholarships ranging from $500 to $1,500 are available to students graduating high school or currently enrolled in postsecondary school who are planning to continue their education.
New this year, money is being set aside for a Trade School Scholarship for students enrolling in a trade school or certification program such as cosmetology, car mechanics, HVAC, etc.
"We have always welcomed students going into the trades to apply for a scholarship, as any secondary education qualifies, but we were not receiving any applications from these students," said Cindy Allston, president/CEO of the Bloomingdale Chamber of Commerce. "By setting funds aside and renaming the scholarship, we hope to attract students who are not heading to a 4-year college but looking for help to support their education in one of the many trades."
The number of scholarships being offered depends on the amount of money donated and raised through the chamber's "Dine & Donate," the Outback Luncheon for Scholars, and the generosity from chamber businesses. Fundraisers depend on chamber members and general public's support. Please support these events when you see them advertised or check on the chamber website: www.BloomingdaleChamber.com or Facebook (group: Bloomingdale Strong) for dates and locations.
Last year, the chamber awarded 12 students $1,000 scholarships. There were 49 applicants in 2021. With the support of the community more students could be awarded a scholarship to help fund their education and career.
"Your support has strengthened my ambitions to use this opportunity to protect the environment. I strive to improve worldwide sustainability efforts and preserve this planet for many generations to come," said Christine Andreeva, 2021 scholarship award recipient.
Women in Business
The Bloomingdale Area Women in Business also has a scholarship which is awarded to an adult female who is returning to the workforce and/or advancing her career through additional training and education. The award can be applied toward additional training, CEUs, or an advanced degree. This scholarship is funded by Neil Moscicki, CFP of Wintrust Wealth Management and Embolden Wealth Management.
New this year, a second scholarship is being funded by Cornerstone Faith Community Church. It is for an adult female who needs the support to help her employment options. This scholarship is perfect for someone in need who wants to improve their circumstances and better themselves. The scholarship can be used to go back school to learn a trade or earn a certificate. If you know of anyone in the area who would benefit from these scholarships, please forward them the information.
The BAWIB Scholarships are open to an adult female (20 years or older) associated with the Bloomingdale area by either working or living in Bloomingdale or surrounding communities.
For more information and applications for these scholarship opportunities, visit www.BloomingdaleChamber.com.
Applications for both scholarships must be submitted and received by Friday, March 25.
Most importantly, remember to Shop Local the next time you have a choice. It is not the faceless online stores helping your students, but your local businesses.