Apply with chamber for $500 for college

As a chapter member of the Dollars for Scholars Scholarship program, the Carol Stream Chamber of Commerce will again offer money to assist eligible Carol Stream students with their education.

Thanks to the chamber's fundraising efforts, including the Christmas Social, the organization will offer $500 scholarships to five chosen recipients.

"We hope in the future to be able to offer even more," said Luanne Triolo, the chamber's executive director.

Applications are being accepted from those who meet the following criteria: be a Carol Stream resident; must fully complete the scholarship application form and see to it that the form is fully executed, except for the signature of the chapter official on the first page; must plan to attend an institution of higher learning, whether a four-year college or university, a two-year community college or a professional trade school; and applicants may not be a child of a member of the chamber's Dollar for Scholars board of directors.

The application process requires that a school counselor or teacher submit a written evaluation of the student. However, an employer, member of the clergy, a job supervisor -- or any other person who is in a position to evaluate applicants according to the criteria given -- may complete the appraisal.

In addition, a transcript of grades must be submitted with the application.

Applications can be found online at carolstreamchamber.com. They also are available at the chamber office, the Carol Stream Holiday Inn, 150 S. Gary Ave., or through school guidance offices.

Applications must be submitted by April 25 to Glenbard North High School, Attn: Ms. Debra Cartwright, 990 Kuhn Road, Carol Stream, IL 60188.

The chamber's scholarship committee will interview the applicants the week of April 28. Recipients will be notified the first week of May.

Looking at previous years, Triolo noted that the committee, comprised of business people, always has been impressed with the candidates and their ambitions.

"The students today accomplish so much and balance so much that the committee finds them incredibly delightful," said Triolo, who praises the students for their ability to balance school, after school activities and jobs.

Applicants are welcome to call Triolo at (630) 665-3325.