The Knoxville Dollars for Scholars chapter was established in 2003 and held its first annual awards banquet in May of 2004.  As a local, volunteer organization, the program’s success is rooted in the tremendous response from contributors who represent alumni, private citizens, businesses, and service organizations. Their mission is to encourage post high school education and to provide a scholarship to every Knoxville High School graduate to attend post secondary education. The Knoxville chapter is also an affiliate of the Citizen’s Scholarship Foundation of America, a national, non-profit student and service organization.  Their tax-exempt status insures that all contributions are tax-deductible. On a local level, 100% of all contributions go toward scholarships for graduating Knoxville students. 

 

In its first year, the program provided 46 scholarships totaling $18,500.  In 2005, that rose to 65 scholarships totaling $33,000.  The 2006 banquet provided 80 scholarships totaling $44,000, and in 2007, the program provided 75 scholarships totaling $44,000.  In four short years, the program has provided a total of 266 scholarships in excess of $139,000.  

 

In addition to contributions received through the annual capital campaign, the program conducts special fund raising activities during the year.  Those include a spring/summer and fall/winter sports calendar, and in 2007, the first annual 1/3rd marathon and 4k race. 

 

The Knoxville Dollars for Scholars chapter is positioned to assist area students with their higher education needs for years to come.