A D9820 Foundation initiative to dedicate a part of the DDF allocated to District Grants to a system of ‘low level’ scholarships open to students just commencing their first year of Secondary School.

Article by PDG Janne Speirs, Rotary Club of Traralgon Membership Chair

A D9820 Foundation initiative some years ago by current District Governor Paul Mee, was to dedicate a part of the DDF allocated to District Grants, to a system of ‘low level’ scholarships open to students just commencing their first year of Secondary School, in order to assist them financially with necessities such as uniforms or school equipment, through to the ability to participate in School camps, or music / art / sports programs in which they would otherwise be unable to participate, due to financial hardship at home. The scholarships of $1000 are paid to the School for inclusion on the successful student’s account, by the Rotary Club involved and can be (at the School’s discretion) for from one to four students. Once the reporting process has been completed and forwarded to the District Foundation Committee for sign off, the Club receives a $500 reimbursement.

In the 2022-2023 year, for the first time, the Rotary Club of Traralgon took the opportunity to apply successfully for one of these grants, allowing the local Traralgon Secondary College to assist two students with academic and other financial necessities, to the tune of $500 each. Later in the year, with a couple of scholarships still unused, we were able to complete a further application, with the very positive assistance of the School, with four students assisted in this process. 

What has been wonderful about this process, from a Club viewpoint, is that we have had Allyson Armstrong, the College Acting Principal, receive the cheque and certificates for the first grant at a Club meeting, where she also addressed the Club. Her enthusiasm when approached regarding the second grant was palpable and she is very touched by the involvement of the Club.