Olds, Alberta – Olds College is excited to offer some more relief and support to those affected by the 2013 floods in the High River and southern Alberta area. What started as support for one student this past year has grown into a bursary program for others similarly affected.
“It is rare that a member of the community spear-heads an initiative as selfless and inspiring as the one recently brought to Olds College by a generous donor,” says Jordan Cleland, Vice President of Advancement at Olds College.
In addition to respecting the work Olds College does in preparing students for the work world, this donor has a soft spot for the victims of the flooding in Alberta last summer, particularly those from the High River area. The donor takes a real interest in the well-being of the students that they are supporting, and has mentored a number of past recipients.
“This donor, who prefers to remain anonymous, appreciates Olds College’s dedication to helping our students leave here prepared for the working world and ready to ‘find work right away.’ And hopes others will support it as well,” adds Charllotte Adkens-Weiler, Development Officer with Olds College.
Last summer, when this donor decided to support one student, a resident of High River affected by the floods, pursue their dream and attend Olds College. Thanks in part to this support, the student had a great influence at school, and on the donor, and as such, the donor has taken a two-pronged approach to addressing this issue.
The first aspect of the plan is to assist more students affected by last summer’s flooding by offering bursaries to individuals who have applied to Olds College and have been accepted into any program. These bursaries will be based upon financial need, and will cover up to $2,500 per semester, $5000 per year, which covers full tuition for most programs. This donor donated enough for four full-time student bursaries.
The second desire of the donor is to see this fund grow by encouraging other donors and supporters of Olds College to come forward to assist those affected by the flooding, and contributing their own financial support to this cause. For those that choose to support this fund, the college has the opportunity to match those donations, dollar-for-dollar, with support through a Government of Alberta program.
“This type of generosity would provide tuition for an additional four more students, a fine example of how one simple act of generosity could enhance the future for many others, including those who have had to put their dreams on hold since last summer’s floods, adds Adkens-Weiler.