Olds College is offering scholarships to three Haitian students
Approximately $18,000 in tuition and books have already been pledged along with free accommodations. Now, Olds College is launching its Buy a Mile fundraising campaign as the final step in offering full-ride scholarships to three students from Haiti. The students will enrol in the College’s Office Administration Certificate program.
Recognizing that educational needs are among the many issues Haiti faces as it rebuilds following catastrophic earthquakes in January, the College first identified the opportunity to help while instructor Gord Gilchrist was volunteering during the aftermath.
“He identified that many businesses had lost their offices, employees and their records,” says Carmel Maloney, coordinator of Olds College’s Office Administration program. “Skilled, educated employees will be a vital part of the business community’s recovery, a process that is necessary in order for Haiti to rebuild its economy.”
Three eligible students were selected. Among the many challenges they currently face at home, even the simple act of accepting free education is difficult. There is little to no Internet communication and students require a trip to the Dominican Republic to prepare for international travel – which adds to the cost of enroling in a Canadian college.
Travel and cost-of-living expenses such as meals, school supplies, and winter clothing etc. are also part of the economic reality the three students face. Olds College’s Buy a Mile fundraising efforts have been launched to raise approximately $20,000 to help the students.
The students will return to Haiti in April 2011 to begin work in their field. It is approximately 3285 miles from Olds to Port-au-Prince, Haiti.
By “buying a mile” for five dollars, Canadians can make a difference in three lives. Donations can be made by cheque or credit card. Credit card donations can be made via phone by calling 1-403-556-8232. Cheques should be made payable to Olds College. The mailing address is:
Olds College
c/o Buy a Mile Campaign
4500 – 50 St.
Olds, AB
T4H 1R6
Read more at the Buy A Mile Campaign webpage…
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