Duane Kaasa Makers Scholarship Grant

The Duane Kaasa Makers Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports students pursuing careers in the trades, such as welding, machining, and auto mechanics. Inspired by Duane Kaasa, a dedicated builder and US Marine, this scholarship emphasizes the importance of practical skills for economic stability and personal fulfillment. Preference is given to veterans and graduates from high schools in Chelan and Douglas counties, fostering local talent in these essential fields.

Community Foundation of North Central Washington
The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.
Duane was a builder of machines and tools for his vocation and for the pure love of building.
The inspiration for this scholarship came from Duane himself who helped others along in the process of finding meaningful work in the trades. He never lacked work due to the variety of trades he learned over the years. He believed that knowing how to build things would help someone to support oneself and one's family through economic ups and downs as well as bringing personal joy. He was a proud US Marine and particularly favored supporting veterans of the armed services.

Eligibility

Students seeking a field of study in the "makers" field of welding, machining, auto mechanics, aviation or train maintenance or engineering