Certifications and education programs provide opportunities and credibility for rural government employees, underprivileged citizens, and veterans seeking to start a career in the information technology (IT), medical, first responder, and emergency management fields. Being certified and educated by a reputable institution allows anyone to stand out from the crowd and be more likely to succeed in their positions — and obtain a better quality of life.
Why certifications matter
Assistance in getting hired. Having an IT, medical, first responder, or emergency management certification or education gives you an advantage when hiring managers look at resumes.
Job retention. In a volatile economic environment, businesses and rural governments are always looking for ways to cut costs. Having a certification can mean the difference between keeping a job — or having a leg up to seek a new one.
Professional credibility. Earning a certification or degree provides immediate professional credibility and demonstrates dedication and motivation to professional development.
Improve the community. Having more certified, educated first responders and medical staff allows the rural community to be safer, increasing the quality of life for all citizens.
Scholarship details
Scholarship amount. Up to $2,000 scholarship per student, depending on the institution or course. You may not request more than this amount.
Eligible recipients. Underprivileged citizens, United States military veterans, or rural government employees enrolled in an accredited university, junior college, trade school, IT, medical, first responder and emergency management program, or an accredited certification course. Rural government employees may apply directly, or the governmental agency can apply collectively.
Scholarship prompt. Each student is required to submit a scholarship application, a written essay of no less than 300 words (on a topic concerning IT, medical, first responder, and emergency management), a university, training, or college enrollment verification letter, and any other supporting documents. Application, enrollment verification letter, and essays are required for your application to be considered.
Supporting documentation. A copy of your DD Form 214 (veterans scholarship); a copy of your state driver's licence or ID (all); a copy of your income tax statements showing the recipient or the recipient's parents (if younger than 21) name and earnings of less than U.S. poverty guidelines of $26,500 (underprivileged scholarship); proof of municipal, county, state, or other governmental agency employment (rural government scholarship). All supporting documents are required with your application to be considered.
Scholarship deadline. No deadline — applications are reviewed and scholarships are awarded throughout the year. Due to a large volume of applications, notification of the scholarship committee decision can take up to two months.
Mail your documentation to:
The Lois Parker Foundation
206A S Loop 336 W, Suite #205
Conroe, TX 77304