Best Higher Education Grants in Illinois

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

Jeryl Salmond II Memorial Scholarship ($1,700)

This renewable scholarship is available to students who are pursuing a career in the Mental Health field. 

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

Jacqueline M. Miller Scholarship ($1,700)

This non-renewable scholarship is for high school seniors graduating from a high school in Fairfield County, South Carolina. 

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

Handel-Carter Assistance Fund ($2,200)

This renewable scholarship was established to provide educational opportunities for people living, or those who have lived within the past two years, in a Richland County transitional housing program or within Columbia Housing Authority transitional housing in Columbia, SC. 

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

Franklin Hines Scholarship ($3,600)

This renewable scholarship is available to students who are graduating seniors from one of the following high schools: Hartsville High School, Darlington High School, Lamar High School, or McBee High School. 

Who We Are & What We Do

On November 26, 1997, a small group of citizens with an abundance of enthusiasm embarked on a mission to secure the quality of life in our region now and forever. By yearend, they had a modest $1,050. Through commitment and vision, the Quincy Area Community Foundation expanded and grew to become the Community Foundation Serving West Central Illinois & Northeast Missouri. 

Serving 12 counties on both sides of the Mississippi River, we operate as a bridge between our donors’ charitable visions and the nonprofit organizations that bring those visions to life. 

Robert & Barbara Girouard Endowment

About the Fund

Enlisting in the United States Air Force was one of the best decisions Robert (Bob) and Barbara (Barb) Girouard ever made. In fact, the two met at Iraklion Air Station in Crete, Greece and credit the military for creating an “avenue of success”.

“We have been so incredibly blessed. Serving in the Air Force gave us job opportunity, education and lifelong friends that we never imagined we would have growing up, so now we feel it is time to give something back,” said Barb.

When Bob and Barb were looking to make a difference in the community where they have spent their adult life, they decided to create an endowment fund at the Community Foundation to support veterans in West Central Illinois and Northeast Missouri by establishing the Robert and Barbara Girouard Endowment.

Grant Purpose

The Robert & Barbara Girouard Endowment provides financial support to postsecondary and vocational training institutions for the support of Veterans’ education. Grants may be used to provide financial assistance for honorably discharged Veterans, including tuition, books, fees, and related expenses for honorably discharged Veterans or for the support of educational or vocational training and programs offered to Veterans.

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

Curis Financial Credit Union is also a proud South Carolina state-chartered financial institution, operating under the supervision of the South Carolina Department of Banking to ensure financial integrity and excellence. 

Curis Financial Credit Union Scholarship Fund

We are proud to announce Curis Financial Credit Union will award four $2500 college scholarships to help deserving students further their education.

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship.

Piedmont Advantage Credit Union (PACU) 

Headquartered in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and founded in 1949 within the aviation industry, Piedmont Advantage Credit Union (PACU) serves member-owners, who reside, work, worship, attend school or operate a business in one of the six counties it serves in North Carolina or who are employed by one of its many employer companies. These six counties are Davie, Forsyth, Guilford, Iredell, Mecklenburg and Rockingham.

Piedmont Advantage Credit Union Scholarship Fund

For high school seniors and beyond, pursuing all kinds of academic dreams.

While there is no set limit on the number of scholarships awarded, we average six $1,000 scholarships yearly.

This scholarship isn’t just for high school seniors. It’s for any PACU member ready to take the next step with continuing their education. 

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

About NUFCU

Neighbors United Federal Credit Union is a federally chartered, not-for-profit financial cooperative, offering a wide array of financial services and products to meet our members’ needs since 1961. We are owned by our members, and excess income is returned to them in the form of lower fees, and more attractive rates.

Membership in Neighbors United Federal Credit Union is open to persons who live, work, worship, or attend school, and businesses and other legal entities located in the following counties in South Carolina: Greenwood, Laurens, Edgefield, Abbeville, Newberry, Saluda, and McCormick.

Neighbors United Federal Credit Union Scholarship Fund

With a Neighbors United FCU Scholarship, you have the chance to win the funds you need to start your college experience!  

Students can apply for the Neighbors United scholarship of $1,000.

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

Palmetto Citizens Scholarship Fund

At Palmetto Citizens, we're committed to giving back to our members and community, beyond just providing low-cost financial services. We're excited to partner with the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation to award TWENTY individual members with a $1,000 Pametto Citizens Scholarship!

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation offers a General Fund Scholarship if you are not chosen, or are not eligible, to receive a Palmetto Citizens Scholarship. You are automatically entered into this General Fund Scholarship by submitting an application for the Palmetto Citizens Scholarship (cannot be awarded both). 

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

 Blue Flame Credit Union Scholarship Fund

Most families need scholarship help when it comes to paying for college for their children.

Academic Scholarships for Full-Time Students

As a benefit of membership, Blue Flame Credit Union provides eligible student members with the opportunity to apply for scholarships through the Carolina’s Credit Union Foundation. Applications are generally available beginning mid December, with scholarships usually being awarded the following May.

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

MTC Federal Credit Union Scholarship Fund

For MTC Federal members who are pursuing an undergraduate degree and seeking financial assistance.

Scholarships. Preparing for your future.

If you are an MTC Federal Credit Union member pursuing an undergraduate degree, the MTC Federal Scholarship Program may be able to provide financial assistance. For those who apply but aren’t selected, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation General Fund Scholarship offers another opportunity.

For those who apply to the MTC Federal Foundation Scholarship Program but aren’t accepted, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation Scholarship may be able to provide financial assistance.

Scholarships do not automatically renew; selected recipients will receive a one-time distribution of funds. However, prior recipients are welcome to reapply.

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

Lion's Share Federal Credit Union Scholarship Fund

All college-aged, Lion's Share students! We're offering THREE $2,000 Lion's Share scholarships to help a group of qualified students continue their education.

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

Family Trust Federal Credit Union: The Eddie Reeves Community Commitment Scholarship

Family Trust is committed to supporting future leaders in our community. The Eddie Reeves Community Commitment Scholarship is for undergraduate and graduate students through Family Trust. 

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

Coastal Credit Union Scholarship Fund

Investing in education is one of the most powerful ways to build a brighter future—but for many students, the rising cost of college can be a major barrier. In fact, U.S. News & World Report notes that tuition has steadily increased over the past two decades, often outpacing inflation. That’s why credit unions across the Carolinas are proud to support students through meaningful financial assistance.

About the Scholarship

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation Scholarship Fund is designed to ease the financial burden of higher education for students who are members of credit unions in North or South Carolina. This fund supports scholarships for several credit unions in the region, including Coastal, helping students pursue their academic and career goals with less financial stress.

Whether you're heading to a four-year university, community college, or technical school, this scholarship could help cover tuition, books, or other education-related expenses. This scholarship program is more than just financial aid—it’s a reflection of the credit union philosophy of “people helping people.” By supporting students in our communities, we’re investing in future leaders, innovators, and changemakers.

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

Champion Credit Union A. Roland Leatherwood Memorial Scholarship

At Champion Credit Union, education and financial wellness are at the core of our mission. We are proud to award multiple scholarships each year to assist high school seniors within our field of membership who want to further their education by attending a community college or university.

We have partnered with the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation to offer a simple application process with an easy-to-manage portal for the scholarship applications. An applicant who does not receive a scholarship award from Champion Credit Union is automatically entered in the scholarship pool to receive additional scholarship awards from the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation.  

The E. Wayne Baumgartle Agricultural Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Decatur County Community Foundation, aims to support students from Decatur County, Indiana, pursuing post-secondary education in agriculture. This scholarship seeks to alleviate the financial burden of educational expenses for deserving candidates. Interested students are encouraged to reach out to the local FFA instructor for more information. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to fostering community growth through educational opportunities.

The Eric Dostie Memorial College Scholarship honors Eric Steven Dostie, a young boy with hemophilia, by providing financial support to students with bleeding disorders or their family members. This scholarship awards $1,000 to ten eligible students who demonstrate academic achievement, community service, and financial need. Applicants must be full-time U.S. citizens enrolled in accredited colleges, and submit an essay on how their education will benefit humanity.

The LaRue Ottaway Scholarship, offered by the Union City Community Foundation, provides financial support to 15-20 graduating seniors each year pursuing degrees in the medical field. With an average funding of $20,000 annually, this scholarship emphasizes academic excellence, requiring a minimum GPA of 3.0. Recipients are chosen based on criteria set by the donor, ensuring a fair selection process that highlights deserving candidates from the Union City Area.

The Rev. Robert L. Browning Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Decatur County Community Foundation, supports students from Decatur County pursuing careers in ministry or social services, as well as those planning to attend Anderson University. This scholarship is renewable for up to three years and is aimed at graduating high school seniors residing in Decatur County, IN. Preference is given to applicants who attend the Church of God.

The Roland Curtis and Willa Marie Barnes Nursing Scholarship, administered by the Decatur County Community Foundation, is designed to support Decatur County students pursuing degrees in nursing. Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors and residents of Decatur County. This scholarship aims to alleviate financial burdens associated with higher education in the nursing field, ultimately contributing to a healthier community.

The Kristin Lee Burry Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Decatur County Community Foundation, supports North Decatur graduates pursuing degrees in special education, pediatric medicine, or Christian ministry. This scholarship honors Kristin's legacy and her family's deep roots in the community, as her mother and brother are NDHS alumni. By providing financial assistance, this scholarship aims to ease the educational burden for deserving students and contribute to a brighter future.

The Joanie Bostic Memorial Senior Pirate Spirit Award, established by the Decatur County Community Foundation, honors Joanie Bostic's passion for youth and Greensburg athletics. This scholarship recognizes a senior who exemplifies outstanding school spirit through participation in or support of athletics or music. Eligible candidates must be graduating seniors from Greensburg Community High School and submit a statement detailing their school experience and encouragement of Pirate spirit.

About Decatur County Community Foundation

Decatur County Community Foundation connects people who care with causes that matter. 

Our Mission

To inspire the generosity of our community to create a lasting impact.

​We help visionary donors practice highly effective charitable giving; award grants to not-for-profits doing good in the community; award scholarships to ease the financial burden of education for students; provide leadership to make Decatur County a better community.

Online Scholarships

The following scholarships are managed by the Decatur County Community Foundation. Complete details for each scholarship are available on the individual online scholarship application.

Colleen Bray Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is for students seeking certification in dog grooming, vet tech, or any secondary education in animal sciences. 

The Arnold D. Ducanes, MD Scholarship, administered by the Decatur County Community Foundation, supports Greensburg Community High School graduates pursuing post-secondary education in Allied Health. The scholarship aims to ease educational financial burdens while fostering community health professionals. If no qualified applicants are found, it may extend to deserving Decatur County residents already enrolled in the field. Notably, members of the Ducanes family are ineligible for this award.

The Attie M. Austin Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Decatur County Community Foundation, supports Greensburg Community High School seniors pursuing vocational or career training. Applicants must provide a personal statement and the scholarship is available for up to two years. This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden of education, fostering community generosity and impact.

The Bob Clark Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Decatur County Community Foundation, aims to support local students pursuing degrees in criminology or law enforcement. Eligible candidates include graduating seniors from Greensburg, North Decatur, or South Decatur High School, selected based on academic excellence and extracurricular involvement. Applicants must submit a personal statement detailing their career aspirations. Notably, past recipients may reapply, although members of the Clark family are ineligible.

The Robert Whitney Erie County Farm Bureau Agricultural Scholarship supports children and grandchildren of Erie County Farm Bureau members in good standing, who have paid dues for at least two consecutive years. This scholarship is aimed at students pursuing post-secondary education, including vocational schools, with a preference for those majoring in agriculture-related fields. It provides financial assistance to eligible candidates committed to furthering their education.