The Foundation enables business and individuals to invest in the futures of sixth through ninth graders from financially disadvantaged families through the Take Stock in children (TSIC) Program. These students, who also have the ability and desire to succeed in college, are invited to apply for fully paid college tuition scholarships.

Students are selected by a committee of community volunteers who review all applications. Those selected sign performance contracts with their parents and the Foundation. The contract is their promise to:

There are currently 100 students in The Foundation’s Take Stock in Children Program. Since the program’s inception twelve years ago, there have been 362 scholars. Locally, the program has a 99% success rate.

In April 2007, 21 Take Stock in Children scholars were honored for keeping their commitment and graduating from high school. In addition to receiving their four-year tuition scholarships from TSIC, several of the students earned additional scholarships. In May 2007, 32 ninth graders and 14 sixth graders were selected to participate in the program.

Mentoring is what makes this scholarship program unique and ensures student success. Mentors are matched with students at area high schools. Mentors meet with their students 2-3 times a month for 30 minutes on school grounds during school hours.

Many of the matches grow beyond mentor-student relationships into friendships. “This is a forever thing for me,” said one student. Another student said, “He’s like another friend.” And a mentor stated, “We plan to keep in touch. It has been a meaningful relationship for both of us.”

The scholarships are funded by local contributions and fundraising activities by the Foundation. All donations are matched, dollar for dollar, through the Florida Prepaid College Foundation.

The major TSIC fundraiser is an auction held in November. Last year the annual auction raised more than $48,000. All proceeds are used to purchase scholarships. More than 110 silent auction items were offered and live auction items included artwork from world-renown artists Robert Rauschenberg and Darryl Pottorf.

As a sponsor, you receive a student's photograph and biography. You can meet the child - volunteer prior to becoming his or her mentor, if you wish. Call Janelle Caple at 337-0433 or email Janelle@leeschoolfoundation.org for information on how you can become a mentor.