In an inspiring move, the Rick Hansen Foundation (RHF) has launched the Rick and Amanda Hansen Scholarship for Youth with Disabilities. This initiative promises to break down financial barriers to higher education for Canadian youth living with disabilities. Set in the traditional territory of the xʷməθkwəy ̓əm (Musqueam) First Nation, Richmond BC, the scholarship is a beacon of hope, championing inclusivity and perseverance.
Understanding the Need
Statistics paint a stark picture: in 2022, 20% of Canadian youth reported disabilities — a significant increase from 13% in 2017. Despite their aspirations, individuals with disabilities often face greater educational and financial challenges compared to their peers without disabilities. The RHF, under the leadership of its founder, Rick Hansen, and board director, Amanda Hansen, aims to level the playing field through this transformative scholarship.
Scholarship Details
The Rick and Amanda Hansen Scholarship offers substantial financial assistance of up to $10,000 per year, with a potential cumulative total of $40,000. This funding is aimed at Canadians under the age of 30 who aspire to pursue a 1- to 4-year program at a publicly funded post-secondary institution.
Eligibility and Application Process
Eligible candidates must:
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Have a functional limitation, whether permanent or episodic, that affects their ability to participate in post-secondary education.
- Be under 30 years old as of the application deadline on May 31, 2024.
- Plan to enroll full-time in the 2024/25 academic year in an eligible program.
- Not receive other financial awards totaling more than $2,500 per year, excluding student loans.
Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the values of perseverance, inclusivity, and making a difference, as well as the clarity of career goals, academic potential, and financial necessity. The deadline for applications is May 31, 2024, and recipients will be announced in August 2024.
Call to Action
If you or someone you know aligns with these values and meets the criteria, consider applying for the Rick and Amanda Hansen Scholarship. This is not just an opportunity for financial support, but a chance to be part of a community that actively works towards a more inclusive and accessible world. Visit Rick Hansen Foundation Scholarship to learn more and apply.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
The Rick and Amanda Hansen Scholarship is more than just financial aid; it is a commitment to empowering young individuals who face additional hurdles due to their disabilities. By supporting their educational journey, the RHF not only invests in the futures of these young individuals but also in a more inclusive and diverse society. Apply now, and take a significant step towards realizing your educational and career aspirations.
About the Rick Hansen Foundation
Founded in 1988 following Rick Hansen’s Man In Motion World Tour, the Rick Hansen Foundation has dedicated over three decades to raising awareness, changing attitudes, and removing barriers for people with disabilities. Learn more about their impactful work at Rick Hansen Foundation.
Contact Information
For further inquiries, contact Cynnamon Schreinert at Hartley PR:
Cynnamon@hartleypr.com or call 604-802-2733.
Join us in making a difference—apply for the scholarship today and share this opportunity within your networks to empower more youth to reach their potential, free from financial constraints.