Dollars for scholars program raises awareness

COLFAX - The Colfax Schools Foundation teamed up with the local branch of P1FCU to raise awareness for the foundation's Dollars for Scholars program.

P1FCU donated and printed labels for water bottles to be sold at concessions during Bulldog games which have a QR code to scan and donate to scholarships for graduating seniors.

Colfax School Foundation President Mary Anne Wigen said the Colfax Schools Foundation was established in 2002 by the Colfax High School graduating class of 1952.

"Because of their insight and generosity, the original endowments have grown over the years," she said, noting 35 scholarships were awarded to seventeen graduates for a total of $40,350 in 2024.

Applicants of the scholarships apply online using the Scholarship America/Dollars for Scholars website and are scored electronically.

The Colfax Schools Foundation board chooses scholarships recipients based on a point system and criteria of individual scholarships.

The Class of 1952's scholarship looks at financial need for students who have struggled academically, but are strong finishers.

Colfax Rotary gives three scholarships, for academics, four-year university and two year or a vocational program.

Other scholarships established in memory of past Colfax High School graduates are Craig Culbertson scholarship, Rich VanTine Scholarship, Steve Luther and Don McClintock scholarships.

"Our idea was to get more exposure with the water bottles," said Wigen, noting at basketball games the water bottles being bought with the logo on it will be to people who have kids who could get the scholarships.

"So many people don't realize that we're there," she said.

Wigen said the high school counselor is the one who says when the scholarship opens, closes and when to apply.

"We thank P1FCU for their generosity, donating the labels," she said.