Thousands of dollars in scholarship funds are available again for Surrey students

Seven thousand dollars in scholarship funds are again available for Surrey Grade 12s.

The Cloverdale Rodeo Youth Initiative Foundation (CRYIF) is offering the money to students who have used their free time to volunteer and help in their communities.

According to cloverdalerodeofoundation.com, the program is typically open to “past and current Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair volunteer students who are in their senior year.” However, since the rodeo was canceled three years in a row, the program is still open to Year 12 students who have volunteered in some capacity in their communities.

“Prior to 2019, volunteering at the annual Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair was one of the criteria for applying for a scholarship,” said Rick Hugh, Chairman of CRYIF. “With no Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair in 2020, 2021 and 2022, the Foundation dropped that as a requirement and focused on student service and volunteerism through other events and organizations.”

Hugh said that with plans well advanced for a country fair and rodeo in 2023, CRYIF is reopening applications to students who have volunteered at rodeo events.

“That means there is no requirement for 2023 scholarship applicants to volunteer with us in May,” added Hugh. “(We) know that May is a very busy month for many Year 12 students.”

Hugh said they also welcome applications from any student in grades 10 through 12 who would like to volunteer at the 2023 Rodeo. Visit the Cloverdale Rodeo & Exhibition Association website for information on volunteering.

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Last year CRYIF awarded $1,000 scholarships to: Arjan Bhatha (Clayton Heights Secondary), Amrita Johal (École Kwantlen Park Secondary), Ashan Khangura (Lord Tweedsmuir Secondary), Sava Khangura (Lord Tweedsmuir Secondary) and Ella Vuilleumier (École Salish Secondary). Mackenzie Dawson (Lord Tweedsmuir Secondary) won the $2,000 Isabella Olson Rising Above Scholarship.

“In addition to providing scholarships, (we) offer other opportunities for high school students,” said Hugh. “Part of our mandate is to support youth and community organizations with projects and initiatives that benefit youth in the Lower Fraser Valley.”

He said “other” support may come in the form of funding or other types of resources. Requests for help in other areas can be found by clicking on the Request Help tab on the CRYIF website.

Hugh said they are also looking for students to serve as youth advisors on the board of the Cloverdale Rodeo Youth Initiative Foundation. Applications for youth counselor positions can also be found on the CRYIF website under the Lend Help tab.

“Through these positions, high school students have the opportunity to help shape the future of our foundation while improving the lives of youth in the Lower Fraser Valley.”

Hugh added that CRYIF and the Cloverdale Rodeo & Exhibition Association depend on the support of the community and gave some examples.

“The Isabella Olson Rising Above Scholarship was established in 2021 by Isabella’s family in her memory,” explained Hugh. “In November 2022, community member Parveen Bharti, CEO and Founder of BSL Security, made a generous donation to CRYIF and pledged his support for our efforts.

“More recently, partnerships are being built with other organizations and individuals who believe in giving back, especially when it comes to youth. These include Ron and TJ Brar, owners of the BCHL Surrey Eagles who are keen to work with the Rodeo Association and Youth Foundation.

CRYIF was a finalist for a Clovie Award in 2022 and although they didn’t win, Hugh said it was an honor just to be nominated.

“[It was]a validation that the community recognizes and appreciates the Foundation’s efforts in supporting youth.”

Hugh said CRYIF has also started a new fundraising initiative with the Joseph Richard Group.

“They have enrolled CRYIF as a recipient in the JRG Rewards app sponsorship program,” explained Hugh. “Patrons at all JRG facilities including The Henry, Glass House Winery etc. can download the app and then select “CRYIF 22/23” from the list of grant recipients. After that, a percentage of the customer’s invoice will be donated to CRYIF by the JRG Group.”

Scholarship applications are available at cloverdalerodeofoundation.com. Application deadline is May 29th.

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Source: www.surreynowleader.com