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Citizens can help kids stay involved in community activities

Subhead
Child Guide program accepts donations for scholarships to help students have access to healthy connections
By
Mavis Fodness

It’s healthy for children to be involved in activities, but not all families can afford them.
That’s why the Luverne Child Guide Program is accepting donations for a scholarship program to help all young people have the same access to educational and developmental outcomes.
“The program helps children get exposure above and beyond what a family can do financially,” said Child Guide Lisa Dinger.
For decades the Search Institute has researched and studied the 40 developmental assets that determine success as children grow up.
In 2010 researchers discovered the value of “sparks” — interests, talents or passions that motivate young people to learn, grow and contribute to their communities in more positive ways.
The youth scholarship program helps families with children in grades K-12 to afford those sparks, which can range from sporting activities to music lessons.
“My goal is to be the connector to activities,” Dinger said.
After introducing new students and families to available activities in the Luverne community, many families have found staying involved in the activity for years financially draining.
The new youth scholarship fund allows families to receive funds or matching funds for continued participation in those activities for their children.
“As a Child Guide I only have a limited amount of monies dedicated to activities to transition families into the community,” Dinger said.
Donations can be made to the Youth Scholarship Fund and dropped off at the Luverne Area Community Foundation or the Luverne Elementary School.
“Any amount makes a huge difference in a child’s life,” Dinger said.
The Child Guide Program will begin taking scholarship requests Oct. 1. Parents, activity supervisors and/or community members can make requests or referrals.
Applications are available at the Luverne Elementary School or through Dinger. Her phone number at school is 507-283-4497 ext. 3580.
The Luverne Child Guide Board has developed the application in which each scholarship requires attendance in school and punctuality and attendance to the activity.
All interviews and application information are kept confidential, Dinger said.

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