Two scholarships for a newcomer are up for grabs, thanks to the generosity of a Cochrane community member.

Sandra Scott, Program Manager for the Helping Hands Society of Cochrane and Area, is thrilled with this new opportunity. The Cochrane Immigrant Services Committee Yearly Scholarship Program will grant two separate $250 scholarships to a young newcomer, shares Scott. "It stems from an immigrant, himself, who came to Canada and found his way, who wants to help others do the same."

There are certain criteria they are hoping applicants meet, adds Scott, one in which is volunteering. "One way he found success was through volunteering so this is a way to help get new immigrants to volunteer and get involved in their community."

While the first round of scholarship funding is being provided by Paul Singh, Scott says they are hoping this will become a yearly offering. "We are looking at having a different sponsor next year, and who knows what those amounts will be. We are just hoping to be able to provide something every year."

Paul Singh who works three jobs donated the funds to get the scholarship off the ground. Moving to Cochrane, himself, a mere 5 years ago, Singh shares the love and generosity our community provide, inspired the idea for the scholarship. "I didn't know anybody but the support and love the community has given me, I have no words to express my gratitude. It really motivates you to go above and beyond when you know you are a part of a place where people accept you. I call this my 'home.' I recently became a Canadian Citizen in June, and my parents (from India) were also here for the ceremony. They had given me $500 as a gift, and when I reflected on my own journey and looked back at how many people have helped me come this far, I decided to give back to newcomers like me and help them a little bit."

When he brought forth the idea to the Cochrane Immigrants Services Committee, Singh wanted a volunteer component to be considered as part of the criteria. "I wanted to encourage young newcomers to Canada to be more out volunteering so they feel they are an integral part of our society. Not only will it help boost their morale, but it will also make them more confident learning new skills and making connections."

Singh shares his goal is that "one day they will be in my spot, helping and encouraging others to be successful."

You can access an application form by emailing Scott at programsmanager@helpinghandscochrane.ca or Fleeha Ahmad at fahmad@ccisab.ca

All applications are due to be submitted by 5 p.m. on August 31, and below is a list of criteria applicants need to meet in order to be considered:

Program Guidelines & Priorities:

  • Applicants are newcomers to Canada under Permanent Residence status.
  • A newcomer is defined as living in Canada for 3 or less years.
  • Applicant must be under 21 years of age as of August 31st, 2019. Applicant should be able to show how they have been involved with the Cochrane Immigrant Services Committee (CISC) as a volunteer.
  • Applications are due August 31, 2019, by 5:00 pm. Late applications will not be accepted.
  • Applicants must plan to attend a two (2)-year community college or four (4)-year college or university. Applicant must provide a certificate of enrollment for the fall semester, which includes the Student ID number and Financial Aid Office address.
  • Applicant’s applications will be reviewed by a committee created by the Cochrane Immigrant Services Committee (CISC).
  • The applicant will be notified by email if they are to receive the scholarship before October 7th, 2019.
  • The applicant will attend Newcomer Welcome Night Event Monday, October 7th, 2019 (evening) to receive the scholarship.
  • Scholarship funds will be paid during the month of October 2019 directly to the student.