BBCF Local Scholarship Program (70+ scholarships managed)

BBCF Local Scholarship Program

Status: Active

Program Overview:
Bridge Builders Community Foundations manages more than 70 individual local scholarship funds, each established by donors with specific educational and community-building intentions.

Geographic Scope:

Crawford County, PA

Venango County, PA

Forest County, PA

Northwestern Pennsylvania region

Scholarship Diversity:
Scholarships within the program vary widely in focus:

Education Level: Traditional four-year college degrees, trade schools, technical programs, specialized training, apprenticeships, nursing

Geographic Designation: Some for specific schools, some community-specific, some regional

Field of Study: STEM, trades, healthcare, construction, general academics, and more

Life Experience: Some designated for specific populations or circumstances; others broader in scope

Eligibility:

Varies by individual scholarship

Many applicants qualify for multiple scholarships

Reviewers understand that students bring different experiences, academic paths, and goals

Strongest applications often come from students who apply thoughtfully, even if unsure about qualifications

Award Details:

Amount: Varies by scholarship (examples range from $2,500 to $6,000+ per award)

Frequency: Annual application cycle

Application Cycle:

- Opens: January 19 (annually)
- Closes: March 6 (firm deadline)

Program Features:

Centralized Application Process

• Single account through BBCF's online scholarship portal
• One application to access all eligible scholarships
• System matches students to scholarships based on responses
• Eliminates need for dozens of separate forms and deadlines
• Reduces confusion, stress, and missed opportunities

Stewardship & Accountability

BBCF ensures:
• Each scholarship follows criteria established by its donor
• Applications reviewed consistently and responsibly
• Selection processes respect donor intent
• Clear and timely communication with students
• Fair, transparent, and accountable processes

Support & Access

• Resources for students, families, guidance counselors, and educators
• Local support available throughout application window
• Assistance for first-generation students and those unfamiliar with scholarship applications
• Goal to remove barriers wherever possible
• Questions welcome—reaching out does not affect chances

Community Impact:

Each scholarship represents long-term investment in regional future

Recipients pursue careers, return to hometowns, support local businesses

Scholarships become living legacies for donors

Create reminders that community believes in students

Contact:
Bridge Builders Community Foundations
1322 Elk St., Franklin, PA 16323
814-677-8687