The Community Foundation’s Next Step Education Program is an ideal opportunity for students and working professionals who are pursuing career advancement and educational growth. The program aims to help individuals as they pursue postsecondary education and career training. It is designed to assist students of all ages, including recent high school graduates, adult learners, and nontraditional students, as they work to earn undergraduate degrees, professional certifications, or technical credentials that will advance their professional goals.
Who’s eligible for support?
The program provides financial support to individuals who reside in Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties and are seeking to advance their education in various ways. Ideal applicants include people who have put their education on hold or need to boost their skills to secure a better job. Whether enrolling in an accredited college, university, technical, or trade school or gaining industry-recognized certifications, the Next Step Education Program aims to help individuals achieve lasting success.
This opportunity is made possible by the generosity of donors who believe in the power of lifelong education. Their support ensures that more people in our community have access to the training and education they need to reach their goals.
What educational avenues can I pursue?
The Next Step Education Program supports a wide range of educational and professional development pathways, including:
- Micro-credentials and professional certifications to strengthen skills or secure employment
- Courses or programs that lead to a degree
- Technical and trade school training for hands-on, high-demand careers
- Enhanced skills programs for career advancement or to help obtain new employment, such as Microsoft Office programs and more
- Programs at local BOCES campuses
- Professional licensing programs, including CDL and other industry-specific certifications
- Award amounts are up to $2,000, and may be used for tuition, books, and course-related expense
- Graduate programs are not eligible for Next Step Education Program funding. If you are seeking support for graduate studies, the Community Foundation has a limited number of scholarships that provide support for graduate studies.
How do I apply?
Applications to the Next Step Education Program are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the calendar year and are reviewed every 30 days for funding decisions. Individuals are encouraged to apply through the Community Foundation’s online application portal at bit.ly/Next-Step-Program.
Email Mary Perrine, scholarship and program manager, maryp@nnycf.org, or Tara Hess, scholarship and program associate, tara@nnycf.org, or call 315-782-7110 with questions about the Next Step Education Program or to learn more.