Give Something Back Foundation selects seven West Aurora students for a full ride at NIU

After a rigorous application and interview process, seven freshmen at West Aurora High School were recently selected by the Give Something Back Foundation to receive a full ride scholarship to Northern Illinois University in DeKalb. They will be mentored over the next three years to pursue a college degree.

Currently, there are a total of 30 students at West High who have received this scholarship from the Give Something Back Foundation. The approximate award amount for all 30 students adds up to about $2,792,400. This opportunity has been made possible by the Give Something Back Foundation. The following seven students have been selected: Jordan Alvarado, Estefany Arteaga, Mason Einsiedel, Estelle Mendoza, Benjamin Morrow, Horacio Rosario and Tiffany Thomas.

The Give Something Back Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides mentors and scholarships to help Pell Grant-eligible kids go to college and graduate in four years debt-free.

Give Back scholars are academically motivated and resilient. Most are first-generation college students who come from families in financial need. A special outreach is given to students who have experienced heightened social risks such as foster care or the incarceration of a parent.

The foundation was established through the generosity of Bob Carr, founder of Princeton, N.J.-based Heartland Payment Systems. Carr received a $250 scholarship grant from the Lockport Woman's Club in Illinois in 1963 when he was accepted as a student at the University of Illinois, and he vowed someday he would "give back" when he was able. His foundation partners with high schools and colleges in Illinois, New Jersey, Delaware and Pennsylvania. The program has provided scholarships and mentoring for hundreds of students.

Students must maintain a B average throughout high school, participate in a mentoring program, and attend sponsored workshops to continue in the program. As seniors, students must complete the FAFSA and be accepted into partner colleges. The Give Something Back Foundation is excited to provide this opportunity and is working to expand its college partnerships and opportunities for students.