Northern New York Community Foundation opens doors to new education opportunities
The NNYCF says the Next Step Education Program is designed to assist people in their pursuit of postsecondary education and training.
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Northern New York Community Foundation opens doors to new education opportunities
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'This builds upon the Community Foundation's history and heritage of supporting local students in whatever paths they choose and is an opportunity to be more responsive to diversification of career paths we are seeing,' Community Foundation Executive Director Rande S. Richardson said. 'At the same time, this allows us to provide greater options for donors who have an interest in inspiring those who are looking to better themselves and our communities in a variety of ways.'
Students of all ages, including recent high school graduates, adult learners, and working professionals, can benefit from an extended educational program to obtain degrees, certifications, or technical credentials for their career goals. Residents in Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties can apply for financial assistance through the Next Step Education Program.
This program helps those who have postponed their education or need skill improvements for better jobs. Donors support this initiative to enable community members to access the necessary training to accomplish their objectives.
The Next Step Education Program supports a wide range of educational and professional development pathways, including:
Micro-credentials and professional certifications to strengthen skills or secure employment
Courses or programs that lead to a degree
Technical and trade school training for hands-on, high-demand careers
Enhanced skills programs for career advancement or to help obtain new employment, such as
Microsoft Office programs and more
Programs at local BOCES campuses
Professional licensing programs, including CDL and other industry-specific certifications
Award amounts are up to $2,000, and may be used for tuition, books, and course-related expenses
Applications for the Next Step Education Program are accepted throughout the year, with funding decisions made every 30 days. Apply HERE. For more inquiries, contact Tara Hess, scholarship and program associate, at tara@nnycf.org or Mary Perrine, scholarship and program manager, at maryp@nnycf.org, or call 315-782-7110.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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