Washington State Elks Association: Vocational Grant

The Washington State Elks Association Vocational Grant supports U.S. citizens who are graduating high school or obtaining their GED, providing funds for tuition, fees, books, and supplies at community colleges or technical schools in Washington. This grant aims to assist students pursuing vocational or technical education beyond high school, promoting skills in various trades and professions. By investing in education, the Elks Association fosters community development and supports students in achieving their career goals.

The grant may be used for tuition, fees, books and supplies at a Community College or Technical School located within the State of Washington. It may be used only for the usual and required costs of applicant’s planned course of study and will be paid directly to the school they will be attending.
Definitions
Profession versus Vocation: While the terms profession and vocation are often used interchangeably, the following is provided as a general guide when reviewing applications:
A profession is one that is typically earned through a four year or longer course of study at the university level. Examples are accounting, law, teaching, architecture, nursing*, pharmacy, medicine, finance, the clergy and engineering.
A vocation is generally thought of as requiring a certain amount of physical skill along with technical knowledge. Examples are pipefitting, sheet metal, machinist, electrician, electronics, HVAC/heating and cooling specialist, auto and diesel mechanic, body and fender specialist, insulator, bricklayer, carpenter, cement mason, insulator, barber, hair stylist, etc. Technical knowledge is normally attained through a trade school or community college. Some trade schools offer a program that exceeds the normal two-year degree from a community college.
Nursing at the LPN level, licensed practical nurse, can be accepted as vocational, but the RN, Registered Nurse, should be considered a profession. This list is not all inclusive but is provided as general guidance when determining whether a person should be applying for a Most Valuable Student scholarship or a Vocational Grant.

Eligibility

Any graduating Senior High School student and/or General Education Development student, who is a U.S. Citizen is eligible, receiving a diploma or certificate during the current program year and planning to pursue an eligible Vocational/Technical Course, above and supplemental to High School or Preparatory School, may apply.