“We believe that all our scholars have the skill, the will and the ability to pursue whatever goals in life they choose. The Walters Family Foundation helps support their dreams by funding renewable scholarships that take them through their entire college journey.”
Danielle North, Vice President, Promise Schools
Founded in 2013, Promise Schools was created with a specific purpose: to ensure all scholars regardless of circumstance, race or socioeconomic status, can confidently pursue their life’s aspirations. Its two schools in Northwest Detroit provide a quality college-prep education to more than 800 scholars yearly, empowering them with skills to achieve their ambitions.
However, many scholars at Promise Schools are in need of additional financial assistance as they progress to the college level. Renewable scholarships that support students throughout their entire college career are an integral part of the school’s model.
“We have higher matriculation rate with scholars who are offered renewable scholarships,” says Danielle North. “Knowing that they're going to have that continued support for all four or five years really helps ensure their success, as opposed to trying to figure out how to fill the financial gaps every year.”
The Walters Family Foundation has been funding renewable scholarships for four years, supporting the college careers of more than a dozen students. The Foundation also provides funding for the Promise Schools’ summer learning program. This program pairs scholars with local businesses and organizations that offer invaluable internship experience and professional exposure. Funding helps with placement, transportation, a stipend and organizational costs.
“The truth is, when it comes down to it, these students’ ultimate journey is not possible without this funding,” says North. “It’s very meaningful for us to work with individuals who support our scholars’ dreams and enable them to take that next step in life.”