Beedie creating a SPARK for single parents

Beedie Luminaries, the scholarship foundation founded by Ryan Beedie, President of Beedie, has announced that it is expanding the eligibility criteria for its SPARK (Single Parent Award for Resilience and Knowledge) scholarships for single parents by removing the requirement that parents be referred by a partner organization.

Designed to help single parents in B.C. pursue further education, Beedie Luminaries’ SPARK program will grant up to 15 scholarships this year worth up to $44,000 each to single parents facing financial adversity in B.C.

“Single parents, regardless of their situation, face many barriers when trying to further their education, whether it is paying for tuition, finding childcare or balancing work and school with raising a family,” said Beedie in a news release. “That is why we are opening up eligibility to the SPARK Program to all single parents across B.C. This will give more parents across the province the opportunity to upgrade their education and make life better for themselves and their families.”

Applicants no longer need to be referred by one of Beedie Luminaries’ partner organizations, but they do still need to demonstrate financial need and apply to or be enrolled in a full-time or part-time program at an eligible public post-secondary institution in B.C.

“It has been an uphill battle to continue my education while being the sole provider for my family over the past 11 years,” says Madeline Ungurain, a single mother who recently completed her training to become a licensed commercial pilot. “Regardless of marital status or financial situation, going back to school is hard and I am so thankful that I stumbled across such an incredible organization like Beedie Luminaries that has helped me achieve my dream.”

Beyond the $44,000 that each student will receive, they will also be able to count on the support of mentors, Stay on Track student coaches, peer support groups and career development resources as well as access to the Beedie Luminaries online community and special events.

Beedie Luminaries launched on Nov. 13, 2018 with a $50-million donation from Ryan Beedie to coincide with his 50^th birthday. To date, the foundation has provided scholarships and support to 470 students, including 28 SPARK scholarship recipients.

To learn more about the eligibility criteria and how to apply, visit BeedieLuminaries.ca. The program is accepting applications until April 21.

Successful applicants will be announced in June.