ERC Establishes Annual Scholarship Fund
The Eastside Republican Club announced the launch of a college scholarship fund, according to Mike Gallaway of Grosse Pointe Woods, ERC board member.
He explained, “On September 23, 2008, the Eastside Republican Club executive committee authorized the establishment of a scholarship fund to be administered by a scholarship committee and the ERC treasurer.”
Under this plan the ERC treasurer will administer and account for scholarship funds and the ERC Scholarship Committee will administer the selection criteria for scholarship candidates and make recommendations to the ERC executive committee for candidate selection and scholarship fund distribution.
Gallaway said, “The executive committee has agreed to an annual contribution of $500 per year to the fund, and it is hoped that additional funds can be raised through private donations.”
"Success of this program depends heavily upon private contributions to the scholarship fund,” he said. Those wishing to contribute may write a check payable to the Eastside Republican Club, and designate it for the scholarship fund.
He said that checks may be mailed to the Eastside Republican Club, P.O. Box 361025, Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236 or brought to any club meeting.
Depending on fundraising success, he anticipates that each year the ERC may award one or more one-time $500 scholarships to graduating high school seniors from ERC area high schools entering a Michigan college (including community college) and who meet selection criteria.
Selection criteria are as follows:
1. A conservative political philosophy and pursuit of a degree in political science or related field.
2. Must demonstrate financial need.
3. Must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher.
4. Must either reside in or attend an accredited high school within the ERC boundaries.
Gallaway said, “The ERC Scholarship Committee will network with high school teachers, counselors and principals to identify potential scholarship candidates.” Candidates must have written recommendation of selected high school personnel attesting to the selection criteria.
The ERC Scholarship Committee will then review and evaluate annual school recommendations and make its recommendation for selection and fund distribution to the club's executive committee. The executive committee will have final say in candidate selection and fund distribution.
Selected candidates will be requested to present themselves at an ERC general membership meeting in order to inform the membership about their personal goals and future plans.
Gallaway suggested, “Members might consider enclosing a separate check with their dues.”
The ERC Scholarship Committee is also exploring the possibility of pursuing 501(c)3 status to permit tax deductible donations, and promised more information about that in the future.
He said, “Let us all endeavor to make the ERC Scholarship Program a success--make a contribution today!”
