Dickes Family Scholarship Permanent Endowment Fund Grant

Dickes Family Scholarship Permanent Endowment Fund Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley
Last Updated: January 15, 2026

Summary

Overview

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois. We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation. Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community. The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois. Scholarship Program Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis. Dickes Family Scholarship Permanent Endowment Fund This fund was established upon receipt of a bequest from the estate of Herman A. Dickes. Mr. Dickes (1905-2000) was born in Aurora and graduated from East Aurora High School. Prior to his retirement, he had been employed by the Burlington Railroad. His wife May Dickes (1907-1989) was born in Chicago. She was an enthusiastic volunteer for numerous community projects and served as the first chairperson of the Mercy Ball. Mr. and Mrs. Dickes were involved in many youth activities and charitable organizations in Aurora. Holy Angels Catholic Church, Mercy Center, Knights of Columbus, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and the Elks Club were a few of the many special places which felt their love. In keeping with their belief in the importance and accessibility of education for all youth, the couple established an endowed scholarship for students with financial need who are graduating from a high school located within the City of Aurora or from Marmion Academy.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Applicants must complete their high school education during, at the conclusion of, or prior to the current academic year. Applicants must attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America during the upcoming academic year.Applicants must pursue studies (career/technical/vocational, undergraduate, graduate, etc.) on a full-time basis during the upcoming academic year. Applicants must maintain a permanent address located within the Community Foundation Scholarship Program service area (a few exceptions apply). A permanent address is usually a parent’s home or the address listed on a driver’s license, voters registration card, FAFSA, etc. It is most likely NOT a temporary on/off college campus address.