Let’s Dream

Attending the Dream Session is required for all April Thacker Dream Scholarship applicants. 

Participants will be prompted to dream, create a vision board, and discuss in a group setting what they hope to achieve. They will be encouraged to apply after the session if they feel they are ready. Applicants are assisted with applications as needed. 

2024 Dream Session Dates:

Friday, April 12th 9:30am - 11:30am

Friday, September 13th 9:30am - 11:30am

Interested applicants must attend full session in Columbus to apply.

Program Requirements

Regular Check-ins

Monthly check-ins (or as needed) with the SHAN Program Director or SHAN representative until the dream is accomplished. 

Mentorship 

Awardees will be paired with a SHAN volunteer who has gone through Trauma Responsive Care Training (TRCT) and will work with their mentor for 12 months on a monthly basis. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it important to offer scholarships outside of higher ed? 

There is a difference in cultural standards for success. Higher education is not a determiner of success for all communities - it is likely a more mainstream, middle-class, traditional cultural idea of success. 

  • Trauma, whether physical or emotional, affects learning. Fear or doubt may surround the idea of working to overcome the trauma to learn in a higher education environment. 

What if I do want to apply for an education-specific scholarship? 

Applicants interested in education/diploma specific funding may apply to our Strategies for Success Scholarship. Contact Director of People & Programs Jennifer Taylor for more information. 

Pre-Requisites for applying?

  • Sobriety for at least a year before applying

  • Attend Dream Session

  • Recipients desiring to travel out of the state must have 2 years of sobriety 

  • Currently enrolled in a recovery and/or treatment program

  • Two letters of recommendation: at least one from a professional support person

How much will each applicant be awarded?

Tiered awards of $1,500, $3,000, and $5,000 are available.

How many awardees will there be? 

2-3 awardees semiannually (twice a year); 4-6 total in a year.