Dollars For Scholars Chapter Guidebook

Dollars for Scholars Chapter Guidebook
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION ORGANIZING A DOLLARS FOR SCHOLARS CHAPTER

How Successful Chapters Make It Happen............................................................................1-1 Board Meetings.......................................................................................................................1-2 Bylaws ....................................................................................................................................1-3 Questions and Answers: Fact Sheet for Prospective Board Members ..................................1-8 Community Cross-Section Worksheet ...................................................................................1-9 Chapter Structure .................................................................................................................1-10 SAMPLE Job Descriptions ...................................................................................................1-11 SAMPLE Board Member Expectation Statement.................................................................1-13 SAMPLE Annual Calendar of Events ...................................................................................1-14 SAMPLE Meeting Agenda....................................................................................................1-15 Chapter Checklist .................................................................................................................1-16 Chapter Status Guidelines....................................................................................................1-17 Chapter Record Keeping ......................................................................................................1-19 Chapter Liability Concerns ...................................................................................................1-19 Checklist to Assess Financial Activities for Nonprofit Organizations ...................................1-20 Financial Audit ......................................................................................................................1-22 Operational Audit ..................................................................................................................1-23 Chapter Dissolution ..............................................................................................................1-24
HANDLING CHAPTER ASSETS

General Guidelines .................................................................................................................2-1 SAMPLE Chapter Fund Management Flow Chart .................................................................2-3 Establishing a Chapter policy on Investments and Distribution .............................................2-4 SAMPLE Investment Procedures and Policies ......................................................................2-5 Asset Management Guidelines...............................................................................................2-6 Guidelines for Chapter Endowment........................................................................................2-8 SAMPLE One: Endowed Scholarship Agreement................................................................2-10 SAMPLE Two: Endowed Scholarship Agreement................................................................2-11 SAMPLE Pass-Through Scholarship Agreement.................................................................2-14 Frequently Asked Questions About Endowments and Scholarships ...................................2-15 Treasurers Journal...............................................................................................................2-18
PUBLICITY AND PUBLIC RELATIONS (PR)

Corporate Identity and Graphic Standards.............................................................................3-1 Public Relations ......................................................................................................................3-6 Getting the Publics Attention .................................................................................................3-7 Volunteer and Donor Recognition ........................................................................................3-11 National Programs for Recognition of Outstanding Volunteers and Chapters.....................3-12
FUNDRAISING
Quick Facts About Fundraising ..............................................................................................4-1 Understanding Why People Give ...........................................................................................4-2 Understanding How People Give ...........................................................................................4-3 Getting Started........................................................................................................................4-4 Fundraising Ideas Unlimited ...................................................................................................4-5 Fundraising Ideas Around the Country...................................................................................4-6
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Table of Contents
AWARDS
Giving Awards ........................................................................................................................ 5-1 What Schools Do With Your Scholarship Dollars .................................................................. 5-6 Establishing an Awards Policy ............................................................................................... 5-7 SAMPLE Chapter Awards Policy ........................................................................................... 5-8 SAMPLE Chapter Awards List ............................................................................................... 5-9 Additional Scholarships Available ........................................................................................ 5-10 Additional Planning and Tracking Tools............................................................................... 5-10 Scoring the Application ........................................................................................................ 5-11 Evaluating Merit-Based Awards........................................................................................... 5-11 Rank in Class Chart ............................................................................................................. 5-16 Table 1 Conversion of GPA to Points ............................................................................... 5-18 Table 2 Conversion of Test Scores................................................................................... 5-20 Evaluating Need-Based Awards .......................................................................................... 5-21 Calculating Financial Need .................................................................................................. 5-23 SAMPLE Points Worksheet ................................................................................................. 5-28 SAMPLE Financial Awards Summary Sheet ....................................................................... 5-29
OTHER COMMITTEES
Other Committee Assignments .............................................................................................. 6-1 Proven Academic Support Projects from Around the United States ..................................... 6-3
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Introduction
WHAT IS DOLLARS FOR SCHOLARS?

1. Our Purpose
To expand access to educational opportunities through scholarships and academic support To encourage educational achievement by raising and distributing scholarship aid To encourage and support students pursuing all types of postsecondary education
2. Community Based
Dollars for Scholars is a volunteer-operated, community-based scholarship foundation legally affiliated with Scholarship America. The local organization is known as a Dollars for Scholars chapter. Chapters may be organized by any group of interested citizens. For example, some are organized around a particular school or school district, neighborhood, community, county, house of worship, or community organization. Others have a specific racial, ethnic, religious, or institutional focus.
3. Volunteer Based
A volunteer Board of Directors governs most Chartered Dollars for Scholars Chapters. Operations and planning are implemented with support from professional regional/national staff. The Board of Directors reflects the diversity of the community and individual board members typically serve three-year terms.
4. Types of Dollars for Scholars Chapters

A. Chartered Dollars for Scholars Chapter The purpose of a Dollars for Scholars chapter is: To promote attendance at all types of accredited postsecondary education programs, to raise and distribute scholarship dollars for local students, to provide encouragement and academic support. Dollars for Scholars chapters receive their non-profit status as a legal 501(c)(3) charitable organization designation from Scholarship America as a result of their affiliation. Dollars for Scholars chapters use the same structure and services throughout the country, but adapt them to meet the needs of their community and to address the local culture. B. Affiliate Dollars for Scholars Chapter The mission or purpose may be larger and more comprehensive than a chartered Dollars for Scholars chapter (may include cultural initiatives, arts, libraries, economic development, community beautification, etc.), but includes an education focus and the desire to expand and include the Dollars for Scholars mission and other organizational supports (Collegiate Partners program, well-established application/distribution/awards process, scholarship training, financial aid expertise through the College Report). Have a pre-existing 501(c)(3) status, bylaws, board, committees, etc. May or may not resemble structure of Dollars for Scholars chapters, but desire other benefits of affiliation to enhance their scholarship programs (Collegiate Partners program, training, etc.). Usually have already established assets to meet their objectives and look to grow in the scholarship category. They may also serve an area beyond one school or community.
Chapter Functions
A Dollars for Scholars Chapter serves five functions:
1. Raise funds for student scholarships.

Chapters raise scholarship dollars through events, memorials, donations, alumni drives, planned gifts, and more. The Scholarship America staff provides examples of fundraising efforts used throughout the United States. Most chapters initiate an endowment to build a permanent fund for scholarships. An endowment can be one general endowment or it can offer the opportunity for named endowments. Dollars raised are managed and invested under the control of the local chapter board of directors.
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Introduction
Scholarship award criteria are determined by the local chapter and also the wishes of the donor. Flexibility is built into the process to meet local needs. Student awards can be restricted or unrestricted. Awards can be established for specific fields of study, for those attending technical programs, or for those attending 4-year degree institutions. They can also be made to recent high school graduates, adult learners, or continuing awards for each year of study. Names/endowed scholarships can be designated to meet donor wishes within IRS guidelines.
2. Develop a process for smooth and permanent operations.

Dollars for Scholars chapters are responsible for determining the structure and operations to best meet the chapters mission and goals. Dollars for Scholars provides the suggested chapter structure, meeting agenda, bylaws, and other operational procedures. Dollars for Scholars chapters offer a coordinated scholarship system for any interested community/organization.
3. Distribute awards on a fair, non-discriminatory basis.

Dollars for Scholars offers chapters a time-tested methodology for scholarship application and selection, enabling chapters to qualify as a scholarship provider under tax law. Dollars for Scholars chapters are provided with suggested application criteria including sections for academic performance, extra-curricular activities, volunteer and community service, work experience, applicant appraisal, student goals, unusual circumstances, and financial need. Chapters may make adjustments to meet local needs.
4. Provide academic support for students.

Academic support can include a variety of efforts to encourage students to pursue postsecondary education. Not all chapters participate in offering academic support. Local communities may find a gap in student support that the local Dollars for Scholars chapter is able to fill. Examples include ACT/SAT Prep courses, mentoring programs, career days, Saving For College planning sessions (for those with younger students), etc.
5. Promote recognition and awareness of the Dollars for Scholars program.

Dollars for Scholars chapters spread the word about their mission and their growth. Chapters understand that recognition of student recipients, donors, and volunteers is basic to gathering public recognition for its work. Sample recognition programs/ideas are available to chapters through the Scholarship America offices. Chapters explore multiple avenues of public relations including newspapers, newsletters, alumni mailings, and an annual summary/report of progress.
Part of a National Network

Dollars for Scholars chapters are active nationwide in 40 states and the District of Columbia. Chapters are assisted in their formation and growth through Scholarship America and the Dollars for Scholars program. Each chapter is part of a network that is wide and varied.
Dollars for Scholars is based on a ripe idea democracy in action. It gives dignity to people because it unites a community to help its own. It infects our young people with a spirit of hope and develops future leaders. - Dr. Irving Fradkin Founder of Scholarship America/Dollars for Scholars
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Introduction
Benefits of Affiliation
1. Affiliation with Scholarship America provides access to a growing national network of community scholarship foundations. As an affiliate, your chapter will receive: Use of Scholarship Americas tax rulings, which includes automatic 501(c)(3) tax-exempt; 170(b)(1)(A)(vi) public supported; and 509(a) not private foundation status as defined in the Internal Revenue Service Code. A suggested operational structure (Bylaws) The right to use Scholarship Americas registered trade name Dollars for Scholars in the promotion of your scholarship foundation. A copy of the Chapter Guidebook, a comprehensive guide for Dollars for Scholars chapters this information is also available on the Chapter Portal (http://chapterportal.saportal.org). Dollars for Scholars Treasurers Journal including income and expense sheets and a suggested format for use by chapters to track financial transactions Resources and tools from the Scholarship America/Dollars for Scholars offices related to all aspects of chapter operations and scholarship issues. Access to Scholarship America/Dollars for Scholars professional staff to assist with individual chapter needs assistance and advice provided via e-mail and toll-free numbers. Opportunities to participate in volunteer training workshops (where possible). Scholarship America/Dollars for Scholars incentive programs (where possible). Access to the Collegiate Partners program and Community Volunteer Service Awards (CVSA) Access to other Scholarship America programs including ScholarShop , ParentShop, and ScholarShops Options for Kids, an online version of ScholarShop Jr. Online newsletters and publications 2. Affiliation with Scholarship America provides opportunities for additional scholarships and financial aid benefits: Collegiate Partners are colleges, universities, and other accredited postsecondary institutions that support the mission of Scholarship America and the local Dollars for Scholars chapters. When a student with a Dollars for Scholars award attends a Collegiate Partner institution, the school agrees to first use the award to fill any unmet need remaining after the students initial financial aid package has been calculated. After the unmet student need has been eliminated, up to $2,500 of any remaining Dollars for Scholars scholarship will be used to reduce the self-help portion of a students financial aid package. (Dollars for Scholars prefers that loans be reduced before work-study). See the Collegiate Partner Directory for further details on this program. Matching Partners are Collegiate Partners that make further commitments to undergraduate students who have unmet need by agreeing to match scholarship awards coming to their campuses from Dollars for Scholars chapters. These matching funds do not replace previously awarded institutional grants. (See the Collegiate Partner Directory to determine schools participation in the Matching Partner program.) Scholarship America offers a nation-wide competition for scholarships though the Community Volunteer Service Awards program (CVSA). This program is open to local chapter students who excel in volunteer experiences benefiting the greater community. Scholarship America sponsors special scholarships offered by corporations and businesses available to students from Dollars for Scholars communities. These awards vary from year to year and are publicized annually for all chapters.
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Introduction
Why Sponsor Scholarships through Dollars for Scholars?

A Dollars for Scholars chapter can serve as an umbrella organization to better coordinate local scholarships.
Benefit to Sponsoring Organizations

Greater Visibility Sponsoring scholarships under the Dollars for Scholars umbrella ensures greater visibility for the sponsoring organizationDollars for Scholars is helping to promote the sponsors scholarship; Avoid Duplication of Efforts Existing sponsors no longer have to do all the work of designing, printing, distributing, collecting, and evaluating the applications forms; The Dollars for Scholars chapter has a well designed application form and plan for promoting local scholarship opportunities. Capitalizing on Dollars for Scholars is a way for the sponsor to get all the credit, without having to do all the work. Existing sponsors no longer have to worry about selecting the same candidates; By building a coalition among local scholarship providers, under the umbrella of Dollars for Scholars, they can avoid the awkwardness associated with one student receiving 10 different scholarships. This also ensures a more equitable distribution of local scholarships. Can join with other sponsors to provide the community with a single awards program. More people will attend such an event, which will provide the participating sponsors with an additional opportunity to receive recognition for providing the scholarship. Improved Public Relations The sponsor can avoid the political minefield associated with making independent selections: Many organizations are often criticized for the choices they make. This often grows out of their lack of a well-defined methodology for evaluating and selecting of the finalists. In many cases, organizations are accused of basing their selections (or rejections) on the qualities and contributions of a parent (e.g. active member of the organization). Dollars for Scholars has a proven methodology That allows for the objective evaluation of applicants; That assigns points for various students qualities and does not reference student names until the scoring process has been completed; and That helps sponsoring organizations avoid criticism for the choices that are made, while ensuring that they receive the recognition they deserve for sponsoring the award. As mentioned earlier, this coordinated approach to scholarship giving will ensure a more equitable distribution of local awards to a larger number of local students. This, in turn, will be viewed more favorably by the community. Larger Applicant Pool Many students are turned off by application forms that may provide for one or two scholarships. Many students elect not to complete the application because they feel that they do not stand a chance to win. If students are given the opportunity to apply for a broad range of scholarships by completing a single application form, they are more likely to apply. By sponsoring a scholarship through Dollars for Scholars, more students will be encouraged to apply for the sponsors scholarship. Gain Financial Leverage for their Recipients Some postsecondary schools continue to treat outside student scholarships as a way to subsidize the institution, rather than to benefit the student. Introduction-4
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Introduction
In these cases, when an institution becomes aware that a student has received an outside award, they remove a comparable amount of gift aid from that students financial aid package. In these cases, the scholarship sponsor is actually subsidizing the school. The quality of the students financial aid package has not been improved by the scholarship. The Dollars for Scholars organization has created a partnership with many postsecondary institutions across the nation. This partnership is called the Collegiate Partners Program. Collegiate Partners agree NOT to reduce institutional aid to students receiving sponsored awards through a Dollars for Scholars chapter. These agreements ensure that the student remains the true beneficiary of the local scholarship. By agreeing to use the Dollars for Scholars application form and allowing the chapters Awards Committee to make the selections, scholarship sponsors help to ensure that the student will benefit from their scholarship. A growing number of Collegiate Partners go a step further by agreeing to match the sponsored award if given through a Dollars for Scholars chapter. In the worst case to best case scenario: A student receiving a $500 award from an organization not associated with Dollars for Scholars might lose a comparable amount of gift aid from the college. In this case, the sponsor has not helped the student at all (other than the value of the recognition received). If the same student were to receive the same award through a Dollars for Scholars chapter, and the college was a Matching Partner, the same student would see up to a $1,000 improvement in their financial aid package.
Benefits to Students
A single application for local scholarships is more attractive. Students are more likely to complete an application form that allows them to compete for a broad range of local scholarshipsthey feel that the chances of receiving an award are much more likely. A single application deadline is easier to remember and more attractive.
Benefit to School Guidance Counselors

Dont have to keep multiple files for local scholarship application forms. Dont have to contact every local scholarship sponsor every year to request new application forms, or determine if changes in eligibility requirements or application deadlines. Dont have to spend an inordinate amount of time meeting with multiple scholarship selection committees, trying to see that all awards dont go to the same student.
Benefits to the Community

A single, coordinated, and recognizable plan for local scholarship giving Will encourage more people to consider giving scholarships Will result in more scholarship opportunities for local students Will improve public commitment to continuing education of local students Will help to improve the educational climate of the community
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Introduction
Responsibilities of Affiliation:
Complete all required affiliation forms (including Bylaws) Correctly use the Dollars for Scholars trademark Annually complete the chapter Financial Report, Recipient List, Roster of Chapter Officials, and submit Recertification Fee Provide a Fidelity Bond for the chapter treasurer ($10,000 minimum), within one year of affiliation and keep it current thereafter Share information about chapter activities with other chapters and Scholarship America staff by periodically sending project reports, news clippings, or other items of interest that would be appreciated by other chapters Notify Scholarship America of any changes made to the Bylaws (submit newly approved Bylaws with a copy of the minutes from the meeting where the changes were approved)
What is Scholarship America?

Scholarship America is a national, nonprofit, student scholarship organization. Scholarship America was founded in 1958 by Dr. Irving A. Fradkin in Fall River, Massachusetts, and incorporated as a national organization in 1961. Scholarship America operates three programs: Dollars for Scholars, Scholarship Management Services, and ScholarShop. Scholarship America is the only national organization dedicating its charitable purpose solely to the creation and support of community scholarship foundations (Dollars for Scholars chapters). Scholarship America also designs and manages scholarship programs for hundreds of corporations, foundations, associations, and individuals, through the Scholarship Management Services division, and uses the funds generated from these services to support Scholarship Americas charitable purpose, Dollars for Scholars. A third program, ScholarShop, provides support to students and families K-12 as they prepare for postsecondary education.
One Citizens Dream

In 1957, Dr. Irving A. Fradkin, an optometrist in Fall River, Massachusetts, had a dream at first only a local dream. The son of immigrants, Dr. Fradkin valued education as the most important freedom in America. Yet he realized that higher education was beyond the financial reach of most families in his textile manufacturing community. Dr. Fradkin called together friends and area citizens, challenging them to join in a voluntary effort to change the situation. The Citizens Scholarship Foundation of Fall River was formed in 1958, by asking for contributions of $1 or more from community members. The new organization was able to award 24 scholarships to local young people in its first year. Surrounding communities soon learned of Dr. Fradkins success. They called on him for assistance in organizing similar community scholarship foundations in their areas. By 1962, 12 cities and towns in southern New England had adopted his self-help philosophy. In that same year, the local foundation leaders in these communities came together to form Citizens Scholarship Foundation of America (CSFA), now Scholarship America. Dr. Fradkins one-man effort became a national movement. Dr. Fradkins dream continued to grow. CSFA began to spread across the country, with each community chapter raising local money for local students. Average, above-average, and at-risk students received awards to help fund their education at universities, colleges, and vocational-technical schools. Students benefited from the recognition and support they received from their communities, and community members shared in the pride and excitement of contributing to their young peoples future success.
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Introduction
The Dream Attracts the Nation

As CSFA grew, it attracted considerable national attention. Readers Digest, Saturday Review of Literature, Better Homes and Gardens, and similar publications told Dr. Fradkins story nationwide. Several foundations took an active interest in developing state-based CSFA projects The Spaulding-Potter Charitable Trust in New Hampshire, The Lilly Endowment in Indiana, The Kettering Foundation in Ohio, and the Bush Foundation in Minnesota. In addition, postsecondary institutions began joining CSFA as Collegiate Partners in a commitment to expand private-sector student aid. Gradually, many chapters expanded their commitment beyond scholarship awards to provide academic support services that assist and motivate students to improve their academic performance and prepare for higher education. In 1993, Brandon Press published the inspiring story of CSFAs origins and development over the years in the book - Dollars for Scholars: The Autobiography of Dr. Irving A. Fradkin. A reprint was published in the fall of 2002.
Dollars for Scholars Today

The number of local Dollars for Scholars chapters has increased rapidly. Chapters in cities, suburbs, and rural areas across the nation award scholarships and provide academic support to deserving students. Scholarship America provides staff at a national/regional/state level to assist with local chapter creation, development, and ongoing support. On January 1, 2003, the nations biggest scholarship foundation shortened its name to Scholarship America. Its mission remained the same to mobilize America through scholarships and educational support to make postsecondary education possible for all students. Because federal and state student aid is not keeping pace with rising education costs, the need for local private sector financial assistance is greater than ever. With that in mind, Scholarship America is committed to establishing quality chapters across the United States. The realization of that vision will be a major step forward to the fulfillment of Dr. Fradkins expanded dream that every American is able to exercise their freedom of education and attain their educational dreams.
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Organizing a Dollars for Scholars Chapter
How Successful Chapters Make It Happen

1. They carefully recruit and develop a board of directors representing a cross-section of the community. 2. They set goals for fundraising, awards, publicity, and academic support committees. 3. They share their enthusiasm and commitment with individuals, organizations, and businesses in the community. 4. They regularly rotate board members, officers, and committee chairs to avoid burnout. 5. They hold regular board meetings of reasonable length and they start and end on time. 6. They understand and support the mission of Scholarship America/Dollars for Scholars - to mobilize America through scholarships and educational support to make postsecondary education possible for all students. 7. They work in partnership with regional/national offices. 8. They raise funds each year by targeting students and community members. Events can be lowmaintenance and require minimal effort, or at times they can be more involved to capture a special audience. 9. They communicate progress, opportunities, and successes with other community groups. 10. They plan for the future by setting aside funds for a chapter endowment. 11. They actively publicize work and success stories. 12. They share ideas with other chapters to learn from each other and to minimize the work involved.
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Board Meetings
What to Do at the First Board Meeting
*This list pertains to new Dollars for Scholars chapters. 1. Elect board members and officers: President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary. Review terms of office for members and officers. 2. Discuss additional candidates for the board, if needed, and make plans to recruit them. Be sure to include student representatives. 3. Select committee chairs and members from the board or community: Publicity & Recognition, Awards, Fundraising, Academic Support, Bylaws, Nominating 4. Set overall goals for the first year. Begin setting up a one-year calendar. (See sample on page 1-14) Include committee meetings, board meetings, and the annual meeting. Refer to regional/national deadlines and holidays/school/community events for guidelines.
What to Do at Subsequent Board Meetings

Make a list of non-board members needed to help with activities and make plans to ask for their support. Set fundraising objectives and establish a goal for the number of scholarship awards you will give. The Fundraising Committee will brainstorm fundraising projects and strategies. Establish Awards Policy regarding selection and distribution of scholarships. Consider opportunities to provide academic support. Select financial institution and type of account(s) for chapter funds. Open a post office box in your chapters name. Participate in planning session led by regional director if applicable.
REASONS THAT MOTIVATE DOLLARS FOR SCHOLARS VOLUNTEERS

Have fun Gain visibility Learn new skills Influence others Work with friends Exercise leadership Develop new relationships Join in a tradition of service Develop policy Use their skills Pursue adventure Meet a challenge Build self-esteem Speak before the public Help meet community needs Help create a better community
Know they have helped and gain satisfaction Be a positive role model to inspire young people Provide scholarships and academic support for students
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Chapter Bylaws
BYLAWS
ARTICLE I - NAME The name of this organization is Scholars Chapter affiliated with Scholarship America. ARTICLE II - PLACE OF BUSINESS The Chapters initial place of business shall be at in the community of , . City State ARTICLE III - PURPOSE The purpose of the Chapter shall be to expand access to higher education for resident students of the following community(ies) Zip Code , , a Dollars for
in the state of by promoting the Dollars for Scholars program, developing an operational structure, raising funds for student aid distribution, and distributing awards on a fair and nondiscriminatory basis. The Chapter shall operate in a manner consistent with the policies and procedures of Scholarship America. ARTICLE IV - POWERS The Chapter is empowered to raise and receive money and other property by gift, device, subscription, dues, and other legal means and to expand and contribute the funds so raised and do all things necessary or desirable to carry out the purpose set forth in Article III of these Bylaws. The Chapter shall have no capital stock and shall be operated solely for charitable purposes. No officer or director shall be entitled to receive compensation from the student aid fund for services to the Chapter. Annual recertification and year-end reporting to Scholarship America is required for the Chapter Agreement and Charter to remain in effect. ARTICLE V - MEMBERS Any person, firm, corporation, or organization subscribing to the purpose of these Bylaws and making an annual contribution of voluntary participation or funds for the benefit of the Chapter shall become a member of this Chapter
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Organizing a Dollars for Scholars Chapter ARTICLE VI - BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS Number and Title. The officers of the Chapter, elected from among a Board of Directors, shall consist of a President, a Treasurer, a Secretary, one or more Vice Presidents, and such other officers as the Board of Directors may choose to elect. Board of Directors. At the meeting at which the Bylaws are adopted by majority vote of those present, the number of Directors for the ensuing year shall be fixed, and the number so fixed shall be elected Directors of the Chapter. Insofar as practical, one-third of the Directors so elected shall serve for a term of one year, one-third for a term of two years, and one-third for a term of three years, the terms of the Directors being determined by lot or some other equitable procedure. At each Annual Meeting thereafter, the Chapter Directors may fix the number of Directors, shall elect one-third of the number so fixed to serve a term of three years, and may elect additional Directors for shorter terms to fill vacancies, it being the intent of this Bylaw that insofar as practicable the term of office of one-third of the number of Directors fixed at each Annual Meeting shall expire at the next succeeding Annual Meeting. The Board of Directors shall make, implement, and supervise the policies of the Chapter, shall elect all officers, and may fill vacancies in the Board of Directors which occur between Annual Meetings. President. The President (and at times of his/her absence or inability the Vice President) shall be the chief executive officer of the chapter, shall preside at all meetings of the members of the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee, and shall implement Chapter policy as established by the Board of Directors. Treasurer. The Treasurer shall be the custodian of all Chapter funds. At Chapter expense he/she shall be bonded each year. He/she shall deposit all receipts in a bank or banks designated by the Board of Directors and shall disburse Chapter funds only by checks or other orders for the payment of money. The Treasurer shall make and submit to Dollars for Scholars such reports as Dollars for Scholars may prescribe relative to Chapter finances. Secretary. The Secretary shall record and keep minutes of the meetings and shall prepare and transmit to Dollars for Scholars such reports as may be required by Dollars for Scholars pursuant to these Bylaws and to annual Chapter recertification. Other Officers. The Vice Presidents and such other officers as the Board of Directors may from time to time elect shall have such powers and perform such duties as the Board of Directors may determine. ARTICLE VII - STANDING COMMITTEES By vote of the Board of Directors, the following committees may be established: Executive Committee. Between meetings of the Board of Directors, the conduct of Chapter operations may be directed by an Executive Committee composed of the officers of the Chapter, the Chairperson of the Committees specified in this Article, and such Directors of the Chapter as the President may appoint from time to time subject to the approval of the Board of Directors. Fund-Raising Committee. Fund-Raising Committee chaired by a Chapter Director and comprised of other members of the Chapter, who need not be Directors, whose function it shall be to enlist and recruit membership for the Chapter and to raise funds by the solicitation of gifts and by other means. It shall make and transmit to the Secretary for the records of this Chapter and thereby to Dollars for Scholars such reports as Dollars for Scholars may prescribe relative to Chapter fundraising activities.
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Organizing a Dollars for Scholars Chapter Publicity and Recognition Committee. Publicity and Recognition Committee, chaired by a Chapter Director and comprised of other members, who need not be Directors, whose function it shall be to publicize the purposes and accomplishments of the Chapter in the Chapter Area. Nominating Committee. Nominating Committee, chaired by a Chapter Director and comprised of other members, who need not be Directors, whose function it shall be to prepare and present to the Board of Directors at least ten days in advance of each Annual Meeting of Directors a slate of Directors and officers to be proposed for election at such meeting. This slate as presented or amended by the Directors, shall be voted on at the Annual Meeting of the Board of Directors. Awards Committee. Awards Committee, chaired by a Chapter Director, which shall be comprised of not fewer than three members, who need not be Directors. No person shall attend or take part in any meeting of the Awards Committee at which applications for student aid are to be discussed so long as there is pending before the Committee an application for student aid from any relation of such person or spouse. In making awards, the Awards Committee shall apply such rules and standards not inconsistent with the purpose of this Chapter as are prescribed in these Bylaws and Charter between this Chapter and Scholarship America and, subject to such rules and the approval of the Board of Directors, it shall implement and oversee all policy relative to awards, and shall make and transmit to the Secretary for the information of this Chapter and thereby to Dollars for Scholars such reports as Dollars for Scholars may prescribe relative to awards procedures. Academic Support Committee. Academic Support Committee, chaired by a Chapter Director and comprised of other members, who need not be Directors, whose function it shall be to initiate and extend academic support to students in the community as prescribed in Dollars for Scholars Chapter Guidebook. In developing academic support activities, the Academic Support Committee shall be subject to these Bylaws and the approval of the Board of Directors, and shall transmit to the Secretary for the information of the Chapter and thereby to Dollars for Scholars such reports as Dollars for Scholars may prescribe relative to academic support procedures. President as Ex-Officio Committee Member. The President shall serve as a member ex-officio on all Committees. ARTICLE VIII - TERM OF OFFICE The term of office of the officers and committee members of the Chapter shall be three years and at the pleasure of the Board of Directors, expire at the next succeeding Annual Meeting of the Board of Directors or when their respective successors are elected and qualify. The members and Chairpersons of all Committees, except the Executive Committee, shall be appointed by the President subject to the approval of the Board of Directors. ARTICLE IX - MEETINGS Annual Meeting of the Board of Directors. One meeting each year of the Directors shall be designated the Annual Meeting of the Board of Directors and shall be held on a date at such time and place as shall be fixed by the President. Notice of the time, place, and date of this meeting of Directors shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the Chapter Area or posted at a public place in the Chapter Area at least seven days prior to the meeting. The Annual Meeting of the Board of Directors shall be open to all members and residents of the Chapter Area, but only persons who are duly elected Directors shall be entitled to be heard or to vote on any matter brought before the meeting. The Board members may, however, exercise discretion in permitting or inviting meeting guests to address the Directors.
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Organizing a Dollars for Scholars Chapter Other Meetings of Directors. Regular meetings of the Board of Directors will be held as follows: . Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be held from time to time upon call of the President or upon written application to the Secretary of not less than one-third in number of the Directors then in office. The Secretary shall make public announcement of the meetings in accordance with procedures set forth above. The Secretary shall mail written notice of all meetings of the Board of Directors to each Director at least seven days prior to the meeting unless the time, place, and date of such meeting has been previously fixed by vote of the Board of Directors, or unless waiver of notice of the meeting is signed by every Director and filed with the Secretary. Meeting of the Executive Committee. Meetings of the Executive Committee may be called by the President at any time. Notice of the date, time, and place of Executive Committee meetings shall be furnished to each Executive Committee member by the Secretary by mail, telephone, messenger, or other reasonable means at least seventy-two hours in advance of the meeting unless the time, date, and place of the meeting has been previously fixed by vote of the Executive Committee, or unless waiver of notice of the meeting has been signed by every Executive Committee member and filed with the Secretary. Quorum. One-third of the Directors then in office shall constitute a quorum in the case of a meeting of the Board of Directors; and a majority of those present at a meeting, and entitled to vote, shall decide any matter properly brought before the meeting. ARTICLE X - FISCAL YEAR The fiscal year of the Chapter shall be the twelve-month period ending December 31 of each year. Annual financial reports shall be based on this twelve-month period. Chapter officials may choose to operate chapter activities and elect officers on the basis of a school calendar. ARTICLE XI - CHAPTER DISSOLUTION In the event of dissolution, the Chapter shall distribute all unrestricted funds in accordance with the Chapter Agreement and restricted funds (endowments) in accordance with all written endowment agreements, subject to the restriction that the distribution must be exclusively for charitable, educational, or scientific purpose which would permit the Chapter to qualify as an exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 (or the corresponding provisions of any future United States Internal Revenue Law). ARTICLE XII - AMENDMENTS These Bylaws may be amended by vote of the Directors at any annual, scheduled, or special meeting called for the purpose of acting upon a proposed amendment, provided that no such amendment shall become effective until it has been approved in writing by Scholarship America national headquarters. ARTICLE XIII - EFFECTIVE DATE OF THESE BYLAWS These Bylaws shall become effective upon their adoption at a meeting as provided in Article VI. Once adopted in this present form, these Bylaws become the governing documents of and are placed on file in the Chapter Area and at Scholarship America national headquarters in accordance with the Chapter Agreement entered into between the Chapter and Scholarship America. If the Bylaws are adopted with amendments, such amendments must be brought to the attention of Scholarship America in accordance with Article XII, above.
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Organizing a Dollars for Scholars Chapter The undersigned President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and a majority of the Board of Directors respectively of hereby certify that the foregoing Bylaws were duly adopted at a meeting duly called and held on the , 20 . day of PLEASE PRINT YOUR NAME YOUR SIGNATURE
President
Vice President
Treasurer
Secretary
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
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Questions and Answers:

Fact Sheet for Prospective Dollars for Scholars Board Members*
What is the mission and vision of the organization?
Share your mission statement. Be concise. (Example: To encourage postsecondary education for all students through strong Dollars for Scholars scholarship support.)
What does the board do?

Provide leadership to raise and distribute scholarships to local students.
How long will I serve on the board?

Terms are three years in length. You may serve more than one term if you wish (or list term limits if your chapter has a policy on limits).
Why are you asking me?

Describe the specific talent/strength that they would bring to the group. (Example: Your knowledge of investments would help us grow our endowment.)
How much time do I need to volunteer each month? Year? How long and often are the meetings and when/where are they held?
Describe the number of meetings and events held annually. Be specific about what is expected.
How much money will I be required to donate?

Board members are not REQUIRED to donate, but certainly gifts are encouraged. If your chapter has established expectations, be clear and honest. It is easier to solicit gifts if you can say that your whole board has given a gift.
Why should I commit my valuable time to this organization?

Share statistics about the growth of your chapter and its goals for the future. Dollars for Scholars is an investment in the future of youth. If you are a new chapter, state your goals and invite them to invest their time with you to reach these goals.
What will my responsibilities be?

You may wish to refer to the job descriptions for specific committees and officers. Clearly state the expectations and identify minimum requirements.
Is there protection from any legality that might arise?

Explain the bonding and liability coverage provided by your chapter (details provided in this Chapter Guidebook, pg. 1-19).
When will I have to make the commitment?

Provide enough time for them to consider the invitation and consider leaving the door open for a future date if the individual is unable to commit now.
* These are typical questions asked by prospective board members. Be ready to provide answers when you approach a new member.
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Community Cross-Section Worksheet

Category
Business and Management Self-Employed Business Non-Profit Organization Fundraising Professional Finance
Examples
grocery store, factory, insurance agency independent owners, farmers, home-based businesses other community foundations or charities tax accountant, banker, investments, CPA, financial planner, insurance, stockbroker teachers, coaches, staff members at all levels radio, TV, newspaper, PR/ marketing/graphics, computer web designer senior citizen club representative, retired teacher, leader in establishing named scholarships highway department, health or social services, police, etc. lawyer, legal assistant, judge, nurse, doctor, mortician, pharmacist, funeral director, etc. principal, superintendent, school board member college or technical school instructor, staff person, administrator elementary, middle school, high school Rotary, Lions, Kiwanis, JCs, Chamber of Commerce, industry representatives clergy member, youth director freshman, sophomore, junior, senior
Current Members
Prospective Members
Education
Media/PR or Marketing
Retired Community Member Government Employee Health and Legal Profession School Board Member / Administrator Postsecondary Education
Parents Other Community Organizations Religious Community
Students
Be sure to consider a broad range of ages, racial and ethnic backgrounds, as well as rural/urban and male/female, to provide a good mix of board members.
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Chapter Structure
DOLLARS FOR SCHOLARS BOARD OF DIRECTORS
9-15 members representing a cross-section of the community, including students
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary
PUBLICITY COMMITTEE
AWARDS COMMITTEE
FUNDRAISING COMMITTEE
OTHER COMMITTEES
Academic Support Nominating Alumni Finance/Investment Bylaws/Policy
Chairperson Members
Chairperson Members
Chairperson Members
Chairperson Members
COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION AND SUPPORT
Establishing Committees and Goals

Each of the three main committees requires a chair/co-chair and 3-4 volunteers who may or may not be board members. Asking people to help with publicity or help organize one fundraiser is much less stressful than asking people to take on all the responsibilities of a board member. It can be very helpful to invite others to serve on a committee so they become acquainted with your chapters work. This may also be a helpful strategy for obtaining future board members.
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Job Descriptions
You may assign tasks to other positions. This is a guide for your consideration.
SAMPLE
TITLE OF JOB: President PURPOSE: Provide leadership to the Dollars for Scholars chapter RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Prepare agenda for and conduct chapter meetings. Develop annual Calendar of Events and committee assignments in conjunction with Board of Directors. Arrange for orientation for new board members. Lead evaluation of chapter work on annual basis. Prepare Presidents Report for Annual Meeting. Keep current on all work of the chapter. Attend Dollars for Scholars workshops / training when offered and encourage others to attend. Ensure that all annual reports are submitted to Scholarship America on time.
TITLE OF JOB: Vice President PURPOSE: Provide assistance to the Dollars for Scholars Chapter President RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Assist the chapter president in planning and implementing chapter activities. 2. Lead meetings in the absence of the president. The following can be adopted by a chapter, but are not formal responsibilities of the Vice President: 1. Collect clippings and other sample items for historical files. 2. Work with committee chairs to maintain a file for each chapter activity/event with reports on numbers, process, assignments, and outcomes. These files are passed on to new committee chairs with support from Vice President. 3. Organize any needed training on topics of interest to the local board (i.e. investment policies, financial aid process, etc.)
TITLE OF JOB: Treasurer PURPOSE: Keep financial records for the Dollars for Scholars chapter. RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Receive and deposit all monies received by the chapter. Disburse money as directed by the Board of Directors. Keep accurate bookkeeping records including expenses and receipts. Provide statement of finances to chapter as requested. Give complete financial report at Annual Meeting. Complete financial reports required by Scholarship America and submit on time. Make award payments to recipients as designated checks to be made payable to college in which he/she is enrolled with students name in the memo area or in a letter that accompanies check. 7. Report on investment of permanent funds in cooperation with Investment Committee. 8. Investigate chapter needs for insurance/bonding coverage.
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TITLE OF JOB: Secretary PURPOSE: Maintain Dollars for Scholars chapter records RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
SAMPLE
Notify all members of the Board of Directors meetings. Keep accurate minutes of meetings, recording members present and absent. Duplicate and distribute minutes (mail or e-mail) of preceding meetings prior to each subsequent meeting. Conduct all chapter correspondence including thank you letters to donors. Take care of all documents belonging to the chapter (newspaper clippings, programs, etc. as a history of chapter work and determine who will keep historical records some assign this to others in the chapter).
TITLE OF JOB: Chairperson for Publicity and Recognition Committee PURPOSE: Oversee and arrange for all chapter publicity RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Initiate contact with local news media newspaper, TV, radio, and other relevant media (school/alumnirelated newsletters and papers). 2. Work cooperatively with Fundraising and Awards Chairpersons. 3. Work with committees to provide appropriate recognition for volunteers, donors, and recipients. 4. Maintain records of all publicity for future reference.
TITLE OF JOB: Chairperson for Fundraising Committee PURPOSE: Oversee the organization and planning of all chapter fundraising RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. 2. 3. 4. Recruit chairs/committee members for each activity and set overall goals. Assist event chairs with planning and implementation. Work with Chairperson of Publicity to promote fundraising events. Prepare a fundraising event report and file for future reference.
TITLE OF JOB: PURPOSE: RESPONSIBILITIES:
Chairperson for Awards Committee Oversee the committee that selects award recipients and distributes chapter awards
1. Annually review the awards program including application design, distribution, processing, selection, award announcements, and distribution process. 2. Set awards cycle calendar and arrange all required committee meetings to accommodate the schedule. 3. Prepare and distribute letters, acknowledgement forms, and all other correspondence for recipients. 4. Prepare and disseminate appropriate recipient recognition materials (awards ceremony, graduation, other options as determined by the committee). 5. Work with Treasurer to ensure efficient distribution of awards. 6. Work with President to complete the Recipient List due annually to Scholarship America, including the statistical section of the report.
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Dollars for Scholars Board Member Expectation Statement
SAMPLE
(Note: Many chapters ask board members to review and sign an expectation statement. This provides clarity as to roles/expectations for everyone. This sample may be adapted to meet your needs.)
General Expectations:
1. Support the mission, purposes, goals, policies, and programs of [Chapter Name] Dollars for Scholars while knowing its strengths and needs. 2. Suggest possible nominees to the board who can make significant contributions to the work of the board and the progress of the organization. 3. Serve actively on committees as requested by the committee chair. 4. Attend activities and events sponsored by the [Chapter Name] Dollars for Scholars whenever possible.
Meetings:
1. Prepare for and participate in board and committee meetings, including appropriate organizational activities. 2. Ask timely and substantive questions at board and committee meetings consistent with personal conscience and convictions, while supporting the majority decision on issues decided by the board. 3. Maintain confidentiality of the boards executive sessions, and speak for the board of the organization only when authorized to do so. 4. Suggest agenda items periodically for board and committee meetings to ensure that significant policyrelated matters are addressed.
Avoiding Conflicts:
1. Serve the organization as a whole rather than any special interest group or constituency. 2. Avoid even the appearance of a conflict of interest that might embarrass the board of the [Chapter Name] Dollars for Scholars, and disclose any possible conflicts to the board in a timely fashion. 3. Never accept (or offer) favors or gifts from (or to) anyone who does business with the organization.
Fiduciary Responsibility:
1. Exercise prudence with the board in the control and transfer of funds. 2. Faithfully read and understand the chapters financial statements, gift policy, investment policy, and otherwise help the board fulfill its fiduciary responsibility.
Fundraising:
1. Make an annual gift to [Chapter Name] Dollars for Scholars according to personal means, with the realization of the leadership role the board must play in fund development and achieving the chapters mission. 2. Assist the organization by implementing fundraising strategies through personal influence with others. 3. Participate actively in all [Chapter Name] Dollars for Scholars fundraising special events, programs, and activities whenever possible.
(signature)
(date)
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Annual Calendar of Events

SEPTEMBER Board Meeting OCTOBER Board Meeting NOVEMBER Board Meeting DECEMBER Board Meeting JANUARY Month off no board meeting
SAMPLE
FEBRUARY Board Meeting
Back-to-School event for students
Put ad in yearbook
Prepare for community fundraiser
Conduct community fundraiser event
Publicize phonathon
Roster of Chapter Officials and Award Recipient List due
Information night for students
Conduct Updates at community meetings (Lions, Senior Citizens, etc.) to publicize progress and encourage more support
MARCH Board Meeting
APRIL Board Meeting
MAY Board Meeting
JUNE Month off no meeting
JULY Board Meeting
AUGUST Annual Board meeting
Financial Reports, Fidelity Bond, and Recertification Fee due March 1
Process applications
Awards program Place thank you ad in paper News story on recipients
Plan September Back-to-School student event
Review process with Chapter Checklist
Volunteer recognition event
Phonathon
Send thank you notes to donors
Prepare and distribute awards applications
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Meeting Agenda
SAMPLE
Meeting Agenda
Thought for the day: Patience is nothing more and nothing less than constructive waiting.
Call to Order Secretarys Report Correspondence Treasurers Report Committee Reports Fundraising - Auction - Phonathon - Golf Social - Dollars for Scholars Day - Denim Days Awards - Application - Distribution Publicity Other Old Business Plaque Updating Awards Night Review Prior Year Audit New Business Golden Tassel Award Board Member Term Review Next meeting: July 16
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Chapter Checklist
NOTE: The fiscal year for Dollars for Scholars chapter financial reports (needed for IRS Form 990 and 990-N filing) runs from January 1 to December 31, to make reporting easy. Chapter operations often run more closely with the academic year. The Chapter Checklist provides a means to evaluate progress against chapter goals and make changes for the next year. Chapters are encouraged to reflect on their progress at lease once each year. This checklist will guide your discussion.
1. Board Functions / Operations

Do we have a clear Mission/Purpose Statement? The mission of [Chapter Name] Dollars for Scholars is to: - Promote all types of postsecondary education attendance at school of choice - Provide opportunity for local philanthropy to benefit local student scholarships Do we have a cross-section of the community represented on our board? Are we clear about officer job descriptions, committee duties, and board meeting schedules? Do we take the time to provide new member orientation? Does the board conduct an annual review using the Chapter Checklist process?
2. Fundraising
Do we have Chapter Endowment/Awards Goals? Do we have an investment policy regarding chapter assets? What donor populations do we target (community/student/alumni)? Can it be expanded? What additional audiences do we want to reach? Have we set a goal for the growth rate of chapter assets? Have we reached the goal? Should the goal be changed? How many fundraisers are undertaken annually? Which are most successful in terms of profit versus time involvement? Do we have a balance of low-maintenance/high-publicity efforts to offset the high-maintenance/high-cost events?
3. Awards
Do we have a clear overall message to send to the community and our students? Do we present and publicize chapter awards effectively? De we recognize donors effectively? Is our process to determine awards recipients fair and efficient? Do we thank our community publicly and often?
4. Publicity and Recognition

Do we have a publicity plan? Do we have regular publicity that keeps our chapter in the public eye? Do we evaluate the success of our public relations work? Do we publicly recognize our student volunteers? Our student recipients? Do we recognize donors publicly? Do we recognize board members publicly? Do our volunteers and supporters feel valued and appreciated? How do we know? Do we collaborate and cooperate with other community groups? Is Dollars for Scholars a household name within our community?
5. Annual Reporting
Did we complete and turn in all of our required annual reports? (Recipient List 10/1; Roster of Chapter Officials updated within the past year; Financial Report 3/1; Recertification Fee 3/1; Fidelity Bond kept current) Do we have a system in place to ensure that our reporting is done in full and on time? Are we using the annual reports to help us evaluate our progress, celebrate our accomplishments, and make improvements?
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Chapter Status Guidelines

AFFILIATED STATUS
Chartered Dollars for Scholars Chapters: A chapter receives Affiliated Status as a Dollars for Scholars chapter when the following items have been completed, submitted, and approved by the national Dollars for Scholars office: 1. 2. 3. 4. Chapter Agreement Application for Charter Affiliation fee Executed Bylaws (with at least 5 signatures)
Licensed / Affiliate Dollars for Scholars Chapters: Organizations that affiliate or obtain license agreements already have their own 501(c)(3) charitable tax-exempt status and are required to complete and submit the following items for approval by the national Dollars for Scholars office to receive Affiliated Status: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. License Agreement Application for Charter Affiliation fee Copy of IRS letter granting 501(c)(3) status Copy of IRS letter granting Employer Identification Number (EIN) Executed Bylaws for review by Scholarship America
ACTIVE STATUS
Dollars for Scholars chapters (both Chartered Dollars for Scholars chapters and Licensed / Affiliate chapters) retain Active Status provided they submit all of the following documents when due: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Chapter Recipient List for the current school year (due 6/30) Updated Roster of Chapter Officials listing officers and board members (updated yearly) Chapter Financial Report for prior year ending December 31 (due 3/1) Recertification fee (due 3/1) Copy of Certificate of Insurance (kept current) proof of $10,000 Fidelity Bond insurance for chapter treasurer. (Fidelity Bond must be in place by the end of the first 90 days of operation)
DEFAULT STATUS
Dollars for Scholars chapters that do not submit all requirements when due will be notified by mail that their certification as a chapter in Active Status is in Default and will remain under review until May 31 of that year.
SUSPENDED STATUS
Dollars for Scholars chapters will be Suspended if the Scholarship America/Dollars for Scholars office has not received the documents required to retain Active Status by May 31. This suspension will last until all paperwork and fees are submitted or three months from May 31 whichever occurs first. The following privileges will be revoked until Active Status is achieved: 1. Participation in the following programs: Collegiate Partner Program Community Volunteer Service Award/Student of the Year Corporate scholarship programs under the auspices of Scholarship America Volunteer of the Year Chapter of the Year Purchase of logo promo items
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DISAFFILIATION PROCESS
A Chartered Chapter that fails to comply within the three-month Suspended Status timeframe will be disaffiliated and deleted from Scholarship Americas Group Exemption Roster with the IRS and will no longer be eligible for any affiliation benefits, including: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Umbrella 501(c)(3) nonprofit status from the IRS (required for tax-deductibility of contributions) Scholarship America secured federal Employer Identification Number State government agency registration/licensing requirement inclusion (where applicable) Collegiate Partner and Matching Partner programs Workshops, seminars, training assistance, and consultation from Dollars for Scholars staff in regional and national offices 6. Use of Dollars for Scholars and Scholarship America logos, name, and trademarks 7. Use of all other Dollars for Scholars and Scholarship America copyrighted materials and services A Licensed/Affiliate Chapter that fails to comply within the three-month Suspended Status timeframe will be disaffiliated and deleted from Scholarship America chapter listing and will no longer be eligible for any benefits including: 1. Collegiate Partner and Matching Partner programs 2. Workshops, seminars, training assistance, and consultation from Dollars for Scholars staff in regional and national offices 3. Use of Dollars for Scholars and Scholarship America logos, name, and trademarks 4. Use of all other Dollars for Scholars and Scholarship America copyrighted materials and services
Questions about these Guidelines can be directed to the appropriate regional director or the National Office at 800/248-8080 or dollarsforscholars@scholarshipamerica.org.
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Chapter Record Keeping

How long to keep records / reports: 1. In general, keep the treasurers journal and cancelled checks, bank statements and receipt lists for seven (7) years. 2. Keep Financial Reports forever. 3. Recipient Lists should be kept/turned into a database for future solicitation (usually 10 years after graduation). 4. All applications should be kept for one year by the Award Chairperson. No other members should keep copies. In the event an award is not claimed, records can determine the person next in line for an award. If all awards were acknowledged, applications may be shredded before the next cycle begins.
Chapter Liability Concerns

Chapters need to be aware of their responsibility to provide for liability coverage. Three key areas for consideration include: 1. Fidelity bond to protect chapter assets and the position of treasurer and others with access to chapter funds. 2. Officers & Directors coverage for board members. 3. General Liability coverage for chapter events and activities that could result in damages.
Fidelity Bond
In the Chapter Agreement and Bylaws signed by each Dollars for Scholars chapter, the chapter agrees to bond its Treasurer with a minimum of $10,000 bond and make required transmittals or annual reports as stipulated by Scholarship America relative to fiscal matters, recertification, and mode of operation. Fidelity bonding insures the chapter against any possible loss or misuse of funds by the Treasurer or others with access to chapter funds. Chapters need to have their bonding in place by the end of their first 90 days of operation. Bonding is not an expression of distrust in an individual(s). It is a customary and prudent practice of charitable organizations that raise money for a good cause. It also provides community credibility for the Dollars for Scholars chapter and the chapter can assure all donors that their gifts are not only secured but that they will be used for the purposes designated by the donor. The following information will help your chapter with the bonding procedure and make sure you are in compliance with the Chapter Agreement and Bylaws. 1. Secure bonding through a local insurance professional; or 2. Secure bonding through one of the companies provided by the national Dollars for Scholars office (AIM Insurance Agency or Patriot Insurance Agency). These companies make a low-cost option available to Dollars for Scholars chapter across the nation (applications are available on the Chapter Portal). * A position bond covers only the named person, not the position held. Each time the treasurer changes, the chapter is required to purchase a new bond or transfer the policy to cover the new treasurer. * A blanket bond covers all of the officers in the chapter, plus any persons handling the assets in any capacity. If an officer leaves/changes, it is not necessary to purchase new coverage because the position is covered instead of a specific named person. 3. If a chapter treasurer is already bonded through his/her employer, that bond DOES NOT automatically cover the assets of the Dollars for Scholars chapter. A treasurer must be separately bonded by the chapter or have the chapter name added to the bond supplied by the employer with their permission. A copy of this policy must be submitted for proof of bonding, clearly stating the employees volunteer activities are covered. 4. Dollars for Scholars requires that a minimum of $10,000 protection be in place. To consider the question of needing more protection, ask: How much money could be diverted or lost before it is discovered by the chapter?
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Tips:
Chapters have 90 days following affiliation with Scholarship America to secure fidelity bond insurance. Fidelity Bond policy must be kept current. Typically, volunteers who are serving on board of directors of a Dollars for Scholars chapter know and trust each other. The idea that a person who is a friend and neighbor might lose or misuse the chapters funds is unthinkable; however, such things can and do happen in nonprofit organizations. A fidelity bond assures the community that they can trust the credibility of the Dollars for Scholars chapter. Endowments are legally exempt from lawsuits, but the funds must be declared as endowments in chapter records and must be supported by appropriate written endowment agreements. Dollars for Scholars recommends that endowment gifts made by individuals, businesses, or organizations have a signed agreement in place (sample forms pg. 2-10 to 2-12). Any chapter dollars raised and placed at the direction of the board of directors into an endowment are not covered by this ruling, and therefore would be subject to loss as the result of a lawsuit.
Director & Officers Insurance

All volunteer and chapter assets are protected from a lawsuit if the chapter is not proved to be negligent (no intentional harm). A chapter may want to consider having additional liability coverage. This coverage is also available at a reasonable rate through the companies that are provided by Dollars for Scholars. Applications are available on the Chapter Portal.
Liability Insurance
If a chapter is hosting an event or activity that may lend itself to accidents, the chapter could be found liable and may want to seek additional coverage beforehand. For example, a Bike-A-Thon could lead to an injury and your chapter may be found liable due to negligence. If you conduct several events of this nature, you may be wise to invest in a liability policy to cover those activities throughout the year. If you only do this type of activity once a year, it might be best to inquire about a one-day policy to cover the event. If your chapter events do not present a risk of negligence, a policy may not be necessary. Your chapter will need to discuss the subject and determine its risk exposure and a need for coverage.
Checklist to Assess Financial Activities in Nonprofit Organizations

Description
The following checklist was adapted from a resource developed by staff and volunteers of the United Way of Minneapolis Area. This list is for internal chapter use and is used to identify the chapters administrative strengths and weaknesses. This checklist can assist your chapter to gain a better understanding of the management needs and/or make improvements to current management operations.
The Audit Committee should be concerned with the following:

the adequacy of internal control (a system in which the operating or recording function can be broken down into elements that are performed by different people, each checking the work of others) the accuracy of the records and the reports to the governing body (regional/national Dollars for Scholars offices) the proper authorization of activities and expenditures the determination of the physical existence of assets a review of the tax-exempt status and identification of any activities that may endanger it ascertaining that all reports are filed properly and in a timely manner a review of both financial and operational needs
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Organizing a Dollars for Scholars Chapter Checklist Responses

Chapters can respond in one of three ways to each indicator used. 1. Needs Work An indicator that is marked as Needs Work implies that work has been done towards achieving this goal. The chapter is aware of the need for this indicator and is working towards attaining it. 2. Met All indicators marked as Met demonstrate that the chapter has fulfilled an essential management need. However, the organization should review these indicators in the future to ensure that their management remains healthy in view of the many internal and external changes which constantly occur in all organizations. 3. N/A Indicators marked as N/A can mean several things, including: the indicator is not applicable to the management operations of this organization; the organization is not sure of the need to meet the requirements of this indicator; or the organization has not met, nor is it working on this indicator presently, but may address it in the future All chapters should take note: All responses to indicators should be reviewed carefully to see if they could improve operations. Indicators checked N/A due to uncertain applicability to the chapter must be further reviewed to determine if they should become a part of doing business. Indicators marked N/A because they have not been fully met but that apply to the chapter, may require immediate attention. Technical assistance, consulting, or training may be required to implement these indicators. The indicators in this checklist should be informative and thought provoking. The checklist can be used to achieve not only a beginning level of good management, but improve existing management to provide the organization with greater stability, reliability, and success in the nonprofit community.
Disclaimer
This checklist is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information regarding the topics covered. Legal requirements and non-legal administrative practice standards reflected herein are capable of change due to new legislation, regulatory and judicial pronouncements, and updated and evolving guidelines. All stated legal requirements are in effect as of September 1, 1995. The same are utilized with the understanding that the provision of this checklist does not constitute the rendering of legal, tax, or other professional services. If the organization requires professional assistance on these or other nonprofit tax, management, or accounting issues, please contact your own professional advisors. Note: Audit information provided by Greater Twin Cities United Way web site
*Ratings
Each indicator is rated based on its importance to the operation and effectiveness of the chapter. The ratings are: E: Indicators with an E are essential or basic requirements to the operations of a Dollars for Scholars chapter. Chapters which do not meet the requirements of these indicators could place their chapter in jeopardy of being Suspended or Deleted. R: An R rating signifies that these indicators are recommended as standard practice for effective chapters.
How to Use the Checklist

The checklist indicators represent what is needed to have a healthy, well-managed chapter. Since it is a selfassessment tool, chapters should evaluate themselves honestly against each issue and use the response to change or strengthen its administrative operations.
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Financial Audit
Rating * E Indicator
1. The chapter follows accounting practices which conform to accepted standards
Met
Needs Work
N/A
2. The chapter has systems in place to provide the appropriate information needed by the board to make sound financial decisions and to fulfill Internal Revenue Service requirements. Timely financial statements including the Balance Sheet [or statement of financial position] and Statement of Revenue and Expenses [or statement of financial activities] which are clearly stated and useful for the board. Annual operating budget approved by board. Completes annual Financial Report for Scholarship America on time 3. The chapter reconciles all cash accounts monthly and has a review process to monitor that they are receiving appropriate and accurate financial information. 4. The chapter has documented a set of internal controls, including the handling of cash and deposits, approval over spending and disbursements. All expenses are approved by a designated person (treasurer) or by the full board, if over a certain amount. The chapter has a policy regarding authorized check signers including the number of signatures required on checks in excess of a specified dollar amount. 5. Board members and volunteers who handle cash and investments are bonded to help assure safeguarding of assets (minimum $10,000 bond). 6. The chapter submits the Recipient List, Financial Report, Roster of Chapter Officials, and Recertification Fee within the prescribed deadlines. The chapter files the IRS Form 990 or Form 990-N within the prescribed time line (either on own or through Scholarship America). 7. The chapter has an annual, independent audit of their financial statements, prepared by a certified public accountant or a committee as appointed by the board chair (depending on assets and/or scholarship dollars disbursed). In addition to an audit, the CPA/committee prepares a management letter containing recommendations for improvements in the financial operations of the chapter. The Board of Directors, or an appropriate committee, is responsible for soliciting bids, interviewing auditors, and hiring an auditor for the chapter (if needed). The Board of Directors, or an appropriate committee, reviews and approves the audit report and management letter and institutes any necessary changes. The audit or a committee-prepared annual report, which includes financial statements, is made available to service recipients, volunteers, contributors, funders, and other interested parties.
Indicator ratings: E = essential; R = recommended; A = additional to strengthen organizational activities
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Operational Audit
Rating * R E E R R R R
8. 4. 1.
Indicator
The chapter monitors unit costs of programs and services. A process for allocation of scholarship awards, general, and fundraising expenses is in place. Endowment and pass-through scholarship agreements are in writing and are reviewed by a board member of the chapter to monitor compliance with all stated conditions. Chapters that purchase and sell merchandise take periodic inventories to monitor the inventory against theft, to reconcile general ledger inventory information and to maintain an adequate inventory level. The chapter has a written Awards Policy and follows it. Policy is reviewed periodically and updated as needed. The chapter has a written Investment Policy and follows it. Policy is reviewed periodically and updated as needed. The chapter has established a plan identifying actions to take in the event of a reduction or loss in funding. The chapter has established, or is actively trying to develop a reserve of funds to cover at least three months of operating expenses and an endowment fund to provide for scholarships into the future. The chapter has suitable insurance coverage which is periodically reviewed to ensure the appropriate levels and types of coverage are in place (Required: Fidelity Bond of at least $10,000. Optional: Directors & Officers, general liability, one-time event, etc.) The chapter uses the current Dollars for Scholars logo properly within the constraints set by Scholarship America (see Chapter Guidebook section on Publicity and PR).
Met
Needs Work
N/A
2.
3.
5.
6.
7.
E E A R E
9.
10. Training is made available for board members on relevant accounting topics and all appropriate persons are encouraged to participate in various training opportunities. 11. The chapter has a clear mission/purpose statement and the board represents a crosssection of the community. 12. The chapter has endowment/award goals that are reviewed annually and updated as needed.
Indicator ratings: E = essential; R = recommended; A = additional to strengthen organizational activities
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Chapter Dissolution
If a chapter no longer wishes to continue affiliation with Scholarship America/Dollars for Scholars or fails to comply with reporting requirement, the following steps are taken to dissolve the chapter. (These steps pertain to Chartered/Grassroots chapters.) Dollars for Scholars Bylaws read as follows: ARTICLE XI CHAPTER DISSOLUTION In the event of dissolution, the Chapter shall distribute all unrestricted funds in accordance with the Chapter Agreement and restricted funds (endowment) in accordance with all written endowment agreements, subject to the restriction that the distribution must be exclusively for charitable, educational, or scientific purposes which would permit the Chapter to qualify as an exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 (or the corresponding provisions of any future United States Internal Revenue Law). The Chapter must: 1. Review all donor agreements for intent/legal obligations and be sure to address restricted gifts as agreed. 2. Vote as to how to handle unrestricted funds. Options include: Divide all funds among existing student recipients/current graduates. Transfer funds to another Dollars for Scholars chapter/scholarship organization with a 501(c)(3) status (funds may only be used for scholarships, which reflects donor intent). Use funds to establish an endowed fund within another existing 501(c)(3) organization to provide scholarships to benefit students from current community/ies. 3. File the Dissolution Form with Scholarship America.
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Handling Chapter Assets
General Guidelines
Handling the money a Dollars for Scholars chapter raises is one of the main responsibilities of the chapters board of directors. Many chapters have a finance or investment committee to establish policies and procedures for all money that comes to the chapter. Most chapters recommend having at least one board member from the finance industry serve on a finance committee. Clear guidelines, understood by everyone on the board of directors, help build chapter credibility and stability. Below are some suggestions that may help keep a chapters financial practices simple and effective.
Operating Funds
All chapters require operating funds for ongoing administrative expenses. Chapters often need cash to underwrite the initial costs of fundraisers or other programs. A checking account at a local bank is the simplest and most convenient way to hold cash for general operating expenses.
Budget
Experienced chapters recommend the budget process as an effective planning tool. This includes budgeting for all aspects of a chapters operation from general administrative costs to specific fundraising events to anticipated annual award goals. Some chapters give event and program chairs a specific budget to work within. However a chapter establishes its budget, it is prudent to authorize the treasurer to pay boardapproved expenses only.
Earning Interest
Once chapter assets begin to grow, most chapters keep minimal operating funds in a checking account and place the balance of chapter assets in accessible investments such as money market accounts, Certificates of Deposit, or mutual funds where they may earn a higher rate of interest. The assets will remain readily available as needed. When a chapter is ready to invest some of its assets, Scholarship America recommends that the board agree on a formal investment policy with regard to its assets. More information on establishing a policy on Investment, Distributions, and Fund Management follows.
Investing for a Larger Return

As chapter assets become substantial, the board of directors may want to discuss ways to generate higher earnings on its invested assets. Again, if the board hasnt already done so, it should form an investment or finance committee. This committee can examine and discuss options and recommend a course of action. Dollars for Scholars chapters use a number of options. One is putting all investment activity in the hands of its investment committee. Another is engaging a local, area, or even national financial management firm to make all investment decisions while working closely with the chapters investment committee. This usually has costs associated with it, but some firms may offer special rates for their services. Other chapters turn their funds over to an area community foundation that will manage the chapters assets, usually for a fee, and issue funds for awards when requested. However, investing your funds with a community foundation usually means turning over control of those funds to the foundation the assets now become the property of the community foundation and the chapter only receives the interest from the funds to use for scholarship awards. Scholarship America staff is available to discuss these and other options.
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Handling Chapter Assets Endowment Program

Dollars for Scholars encourages every chapter to start an endowment program (for more information on Endowments, see pages 2-8 and 2-9). The interest from chapter endowments is then available to generate scholarships in perpetuity for the communitys students. Endowments attract contributors including those considering planned gifts, often because they are pleased to see that their gifts will help students for years to come. Scholarship America staff can help chapters structure an endowment program that is compatible with their individual communities, reviewing sample agreements between donors and chapters, as well as providing comprehensive resources to keep track of endowments.
How Does a Chapter Manage its Money?

Community people and donors in general often ask, How does the chapter manage its money? Board members attempt to explain the different strategies used to raise dollars and often have difficulty making its policies clear. The sample chart on page 2-3 provides a visual explanation that can be easily adapted to any chapters needs. The chart also provides an easy tool for members to use when explaining the variety of methods available to build scholarships.
Every Dollars for Scholars Chapter Should Have:

1. Investment Policy 2. Gift Acceptance Policy 3. Conflict of Interest Policy 4. Donor Agreements on file (needed to avoid donor conflict or in the event of chapter dissolution) 5. Annual goals established and projected numbers for funds needed. Consider what percent of that goal will come from pass-through donations, endowment proceeds, and local fundraisers/donations. Each year chapters should try to build endowment, pass-through, and memorial/honorarium donation numbers to result in a reduction of local fundraising/activity emphasis. 6. Use the IRS guideline for private charities when determining distribution which is 5% of the annual value of the endowment. Dollars for Scholars is a publicly supported charity and has some flexibility here, but 4-6% is suggested.
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Chapter Fund Management
SAMPLE
Fundraisers [list all fundraisers and % operating / permanent] Phonathon 50%/50% Football Concessions 75%/25% Bingo 100%
Donations, Memorials & Honorariums [list % operating / permanent] [%] [%]
Endowed Named Scholarships [list any here] Smith Family Lions Club
100%
Pass Through / Named Scholarships [list any here] Wakeman Insurance Als Deli
Operating Funds
Permanent Funds
Interest Earnings 5% of the annual value of the endowment is suggested for distribution by the IRS (can be altered by board vote) also consider retaining a percentage for growth and inflation
Held Scholarships: For those entering the military, requiring support to better utilize a financial aid package, or needing a delay for attending school, the chapter will hold funds for ___ years (most allow up to four years). Award money not claimed within policy guidelines will be placed back into the operating fund.
Less: Operating expenses
Annual Scholarship Amount Distributed
All permanent funds are invested in [list how invested here]. Operating funds are managed between liquid accounts (i.e. savings, checking) to the extent needed to cover expenses and scholarship awards for the year. All gifts will be managed according to chapter policy (see following pages for samples).
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Establishing a Chapter Policy on Investments and Distribution

Investment Policy
Dollars for Scholars highly recommends that chapters adopt an investment policy. This policy should clearly state how donations are handled. Some chapters develop a flow chart to illustrate their investment policy (See the sample flow chart on pg. 2-3) It is important to remember that Dollars for Scholars chapters are publicly supported charities as identified by the Internal Revenue Service and therefore their policies and records are open to the public they serve. Chapters that do not have endowments will likely have fairly simple, straightforward investment policies that explain what they do with cash donations as they are received (short-term policy) and how they are invested over time (long-term policy). Chapters that are working on building endowments often allocate percentages of their fundraisers between an endowment and scholarships. For example, 75% of the proceeds of all fundraisers might go toward scholarships and 25% might go into a chapter endowment. A growing number of chapters accept named scholarship endowments from donors. The initial gift and any additions made to it over time, remains invested according to the chapters investment policy and only the income which the named scholarship fund earns is used for annual named scholarships. All donations made to a chapters endowment, whether given to a general chapter endowment or to an individually named scholarship fund, immediately becomes the property of the chapter. Whether the chapter delegates the investment responsibilities to a committee of the board, such as an investment committee, or not, the ultimate responsibility for investing chapter assets belongs to the board of directors. A sample investment policy follows (pg. 2-5).
Distribution Policy
The Internal Revenue Service has a recommended policy for its 501(c)(3) designated organizations with regard to how they distribute their available assets. The recommendation is that charities distribute, as a minimum, 5% of the annual value of its endowment for its stated charitable purpose. Most chapters with endowments usually make their annual distribution decisions based on the total annual value of endowment dollars and the total amount of the income earned on the endowment, rather than on the value of each of the individually named, endowed scholarships. Dollars for Scholars chapters are not mandated to distribute 5% of the value of their endowments every year for scholarships. Nevertheless, it is a good fiduciary policy to set this standard as general chapter policy and to make adjustments annually, depending upon investment performance as well as general chapter financial growth. For example, it might be that in the early years of chapter development or during years when the annual return on chapter investments is less than 5%, the annual scholarship distribution amount will be less than 5%. With the general recommendation from Dollars for Scholars as standard chapter distribution policy, any deviation from the 5% standard can be clearly explained. The value of a chapters endowment usually varies from year to year because new money has been added to the endowment and also because the assets may vary in market value. Therefore, chapters usually discuss the distribution percent each year. It is prudent, however, to be sure that the review process the chapter uses is consistent. Some donors will want to know how the chapters assets are invested and others will not. By using welldiversified investments, the chapter can demonstrate effectively that it is both a good steward of the money entrusted to it and that it operates in a fiscally prudent manner.
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Investment Procedures and Policies

Anytown Dollars for Scholars
Effective [insert date approved by vote of the board of directors] Short-term investment policy:
SAMPLE
A. For cash donations: 1. The treasurer will deposit the cash in accordance with the short-term cash management policy of the chapter: [usually a designated checking account is listed here] 2. The cash will accrue interest until the next meeting of the investment committee (or board of directors) at which time, that body will make a decision regarding the short-term or long-term investment of these assets. B. For donations of securities: 1. The treasurer will immediately sell the security(ies). (In most cases, the security that has been donated is appreciated and the donor expects immediate sale.) 2. For security(ies) held in the donors brokerage account, the donors broker will transfer the shares to the chapters brokerage account. (If a chapter does not have a brokerage account, it can call on the regional or national Dollars for Scholars office for assistance.) 3. The treasurer will deposit the sale proceeds, in accordance with the short-term cash management policy of the chapter (usually a designated checking account). 4. The cash will accrue interest until the next meeting of the investment committee (or board of directors) at which time that body will make a decision regarding the investment of these assets. C. If a donation is property other than cash or securities: 1. The treasurer will prepare a report to the investment committee (or board of directors) that details the components of the donation. If the donor expects $5,000 or more as a charitable donation, a written appraisal is required. 2. The treasurer will seek recommendations from the investment committee (or board of directors) with regard to the disposition of the donation. 3. The treasurer will present the recommendations to the board of directors for final action on the donation. (If a donor proposes a donation of securities or property or anything else and the chapter is unsure about how to proceed, contact local legal support or the regional/national Dollars for Scholars office for assistance.) Long-term investment policy: A. All donations made to the Anytown Dollars for Scholars endowment immediately become the property of the chapter. Donors do not retain the right to designate investment policy after the chapter takes ownership. B. All long-term investment decisions are made following discussion between the chapter treasurer and the investment committee, and a final, determining vote by the board of directors. C. Typical long-term investment vehicles: 1. Bank and commercial money market accounts 2. Certificates of Deposit 3. Government or government agency securities 4. Corporate bonds with an A rating or better 5. Stocks with an A rating D. Long-term investments made by Anytown Dollars for Scholars are reviewed annually by its board of directors in conjunction with the investment committee. Changes are made by vote of the board of directors. E. Current long-term investment plan of this chapter: (insert your chapter plan here)
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Asset Management Guidelines

How does a Dollars for Scholars chapter raise funds for scholarships?
Experienced chapters recommend that the board of directors discuss a fundraising strategy that best fits its community. They have found three approaches that work well: A. Event Fundraising Dollars for Scholars communities that participate in chapter events and activities expect the board of directors to determine and state publicly the use of event proceeds. The chapter is free to promote an event as supporting specific programs (i.e., all Denim Day proceeds will be used for scholarships, or all Phonathon proceeds will build the chapter endowment) or to promote the event as a shared opportunity (i.e., 60% of the event proceeds will be directed to the chapter endowment and 40% will be directed to scholarships). B. Individual, Endowed Named Scholarships Donors expect Dollars for Scholars chapters to invest donations for a named endowment and distribute only interest income as annual awards. Chapters that have multiple named endowments should establish a minimum amount required to endow a named scholarship. This minimum amount may increase over time as the cost of postsecondary education increases and to allow for fluctuating earnings on investments. C. Pass-through Named Scholarships Donors who want to support their communitys students but do not wish to endow a scholarship may wish to provide one or more scholarships to be awarded during the upcoming award cycle. For example, an individual or local business or civic group may donate $1,000 for an award in their name every year instead of endowing a scholarship.
What should a chapter do if a donor wants to restrict a gift to a particular student profile or area of interest?
Restricted gifts designated for use according to donor wishes (for example, a student who plans on pursuing a career in education) should have written documentation that simply, but clearly states the donors wishes and the chapters intent to honor those wishes (sample forms pg. 2-10 to 2-13). Chapters experienced with donor restrictions strongly suggest discouraging ironclad stipulations. The concern is that if no eligible student is identified for a restricted scholarship, the award will go unused. Their advice is to gently encourage the donor to consider as broad a restriction as possible, even referring to it as a preference, with the provision that in the event no student is eligible for the identified scholarship, the award will be given at the chapters discretion. The most useful gifts to chapters are those with no or few strings attached where the board of directors may determine how to use them.
Is there a difference between a gift and a contribution?

Contributions are generally classified as unrestricted donations for immediate scholarships and chapter operations. They are often received from chapter events and fundraisers. Gifts are generally classified as donations that the donor has restricted to an endowment, either a general chapter endowment or to an individually named scholarship fund. Gifts are often not solicited. Usually they are received as memorial donations, bequests, or in honor of a person, group, or business. In order to distinguish between a gift and a contribution, chapters should have a process in place to evaluate each donation. This process is most often referred to as a gift policy. If an individual approaches a chapter with the prospect of a large donation, the gift policy will assist the chapter with determining donor intent and the degree to which the chapter is willing to honor that intent. With a gift acceptance policy, the chapter treasurer will know how to record all donations and donors will understand how their donations will be used. 2-6
June 2011
Handling Chapter Assets How does a chapter work with the intent of a donor?
In order to determine how a donation should be recorded, the chapter must first understand the donors intent. A. Fundraising Event When a chapter conducts a fundraiser such as a phonathon, a participant in that event (the donor) typically expects the proceeds from the event to be distributed in the form of scholarships to students in the upcoming award cycle unless the event publicity states otherwise. If the chapters board of directors has determined that the proceeds of a specific fundraiser will be used for a purpose other than scholarships (such as setting them aside for chapter operating expenses), then the publicity should clearly state the purpose. As noted earlier, many chapters split the proceeds of fundraisers between several purposes. B. Endowment Giving Many chapters have donors who make donations with the stipulation that it be restricted to the chapter endowment and invested in such a manner that it will generate annual scholarships from its income. When a donor makes this kind of gift, it is important to document in writing their specific intentions. This is best accomplished by a signed endowment agreement. Likewise, the chapter should also make its own stipulations equally clear to the donor. The chapter might require that all scholarship decisions are up to the award selection committee. In addition, chapters may allow donors to identify preferences in selection with regard to academic merit or specific extracurricular interest or a particular career choice. C. Unrestricted Giving If a chapter receives a donation with no restrictions, the board of directors is at liberty to determine how the donation will be used. The critical element is that the chapter needs to have clear expectations on the part of the donor and on the part of the chapter about how the donation will be handled. Keep in mind that chapters can refuse to accept donations if they feel the donors expectations are unrealistic, excessive, or inappropriate. They may also refuse donations if the board feels they may involve potential liability.
What is an example of an inappropriate expectation on the part of a donor?

The following memo to Dollars for Scholars chapters from Scholarship America describes such an expectation: Memorandum Recently, I have had conversations with Scholarship America staff indicating an increasing desire by donors to direct funds given to Dollars for Scholars chapters to related parties (either relatives or friends) under the premise of a scholarship and/or for the attainment of a benefit (namely a Collegiate Partner match or a charitable contribution). This activity is unethical and illegal. Scholarship America neither condones nor allows any staff member, volunteer, or chapter to enter into donor transactions where the transfer of the assets ownership isnt complete at the time of the gift and doesnt comply with all appropriate laws. Let me give you an example A chapter receives $1,000 from an individual and that individual directs the chapter to award these funds to a named individual. Whats wrong with this? First, Internal Revenue Code Section 170(f)(3) states, A taxpayer is denied a charitable deduction for gifts to a charitywhere less than the taxpayers entire interest in the property is contributed. In the example above, the donor retained the right to direct the funds to a named individual and that denies the donor a charitable gift under the law. To the extent the chapter indicates these funds are a charitable gift, deductible by the donor, the chapter is in violation of IRS Code Section 170.
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Handling Chapter Assets Can a chapter spend donations that have been assigned to an endowment?
The answer to this question is both yes and no. No, the chapter may not spend donations that a donor has designated to the chapters endowment. There are very few exceptions to the irrevocable nature of the agreement between the donor of a restricted gift and the chapter, and those exceptions usually require written mutual agreement to change. On the other hand, when a board of directors has elected to commit unrestricted assets (such as donations from a fundraising event) to its endowment, those assets can be spent at a later time if the board formally revokes its original decision. This discretion, subject to the chapters bylaws, is important to the chapters fiscal flexibility and freedom to plan for its future. It is very important for detailed minutes to be taken to enhance information passed along to future board members.
How does a chapter establish a named, endowed scholarship fund?

The best way for a chapter to establish a named scholarship fund is by using a formal, signed agreement that lays out clearly what the donors intent is and what the chapters obligations are. This agreement is also very helpful in ensuring that future board members understand commitments made in the past. Endowments are established in perpetuity, and the time will come when all connections to named scholarship funds will be gone. Experience also shows that donors who establish named scholarships are more likely to consider future contributions to help build their funds.
What records are chapters expected to maintain with regard to their assets?
Although all donations, endowed or otherwise, can be invested together (often referred to as pooled investments), it is very important to keep clear, accurate records of every single donation. All chapter records are kept in conjunction with statements from the chapters financial institution(s). Chapters that accept both unrestricted donations as well as donations to its endowment usually keep two sets of records, one for each kind of donation. Chapters that have named scholarship endowments also keep specific records on each named fund, recording each donation made to that fund and reporting all additions to the named fund to the fund sponsor at least once a year. As the chapter treasurer assembles monthly financial reports for the board of directors, it is easier to have a separate category for unrestricted as well as endowed funds. There can be separate lines for each named scholarship fund as well as any general endowment fund. These monthly reports ensure that the board of directors is fully aware of what its assets are and how they are being managed.
Guidelines for a Chapter Endowment

What is an endowment?
An endowment consists of donations (principal) that cannot be spent but must be invested. The income from the principal is used to generate scholarships or for other chapter-approved programs. Permanent funds are invested to yield interest for use by the chapter. Chapters cannot use the principal when money is designated by the donor for endowment. If a chapter raises money itself, or is given money by a donor to be used as the chapter wishes, the chapter may vote to place this money in an endowment. By the same token, the chapter has the right at a future meeting to vote to remove this money from an endowment for specific reasons (exceptionally large class, low interest rates, etc). This is sometimes referred to as a quasi-endowment.
Types of Endowments
1. Operating 2. Scholarship: Unrestricted and Restricted (Unrestricted means the chapter awards policy will govern the distribution. Restricted means the donor provided priorities or preferences for use of the funds. Be careful too many restrictions for awards make the process more cumbersome. Preferences, with the ability to use the funds according to the chapter policy when preferences are not met, are the best way to write up restricted awards.)
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Handling Chapter Assets What are the board member responsibilities to an endowment?
1. Maintain principal 2. Distribute interest 3. Grow by the rate of inflation
Can donors designate how their donations are to be used?

All donors can designate their donations as unrestricted (to be used according to chapter award policy) or restricted (to be placed in an endowment). Chapters may allow donors of named scholarship funds to establish certain selection criteria for their scholarship recipients using a written agreement with the criteria spelled out. Dollars for Scholars recommends, however, that donors be encouraged to name award preferences rather than specific restrictions. This will allow the chapter, should no student be eligible in a given year, to give out the award according to the chapters awards policy. Likewise, it is good policy to encourage donors to name broad preferences rather than narrow ones in order to increase the likelihood that an eligible student is found.
Can endowed scholarships be established through a will?

Yes, in fact, there are many methods for the establishment of endowed scholarships; a will is only one of them. Dollars for Scholars chapters have the flexibility to work with the interests of donors as they set up an endowed scholarship on a current or deferred basis. Scholarship America staff is available for consultation.
Can donors demand that their donations be returned?

No. Once a chapter receives a donation, it belongs to the chapter. By law, a donation made to an endowment is irrevocable. On the other hand, chapters have the discretionary ability to evaluate such a request and determine whether or not it is in the best interests of the chapter to honor it. When in doubt, chapters should contact Scholarship America staff for assistance.
What happens if a chapter ceases to exist?

The sample endowment agreement recommended by Scholarship America contains a sunset clause that details what happens if the Dollars for Scholars chapter ceases to exist (pg. 2-11). A similar provision is part of the Chapter Bylaws for every Dollars for Scholars chapter as well.
Can donors make additional gifts to an endowment?

Yes. Future donations to either a general chapter endowment or to individually named scholarship funds can be made at any time in perpetuity. Chapters actively encourage additional gifts to endowment funds. These donations are added to the principal of the endowment and the income the endowment earns continues to generate scholarships according to the terms of the original endowment agreement.
Do earnings from the endowment need to be spent immediately?

No. It is permissible for a chapter to build the principal of an endowment to a specific level prior to distributing the earnings for scholarships. This is true for a general chapter endowment or for individually named scholarship funds. Many chapters provide for accumulating funds, allowing named scholarship funds to grow to a minimum level over time before generating scholarships.
How does a local Dollars for Scholars chapter invest its endowment assets?
Each chapters board of directors controls its investments. The board is guided by its investment policy. That policy is available to potential donors.
Are endowed assets protected from a chapters creditors?

Yes. A donor-directed endowment is protected from creditors, but must be declared as an endowment in chapter records and must be supported by appropriate signed endowment agreements. Any chapter dollars raised and placed at the direction of the board of directors into an endowment are not protected and they are available to a chapters creditors.
How does a donor establish an endowed scholarship?

All a donor or potential donor needs to do is contact a chapter volunteer. If the chapter is new to endowed scholarships, it can call on Scholarship America staff for assistance in establishing the endowment.
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Endowed Scholarship Agreement
SAMPLE ONE
I/We wish to endow a scholarship with [insert chapter name] Dollars for Scholars to benefit local students. This scholarship will be awarded as the [insert name of scholarship] Scholarship. Amount of Initial Gift: $ I/We understand that we may add to this initial gift at any time. I/We understand that this initial gift and any subsequent additions to the [insert name of scholarship] Scholarship will be invested in perpetuity and that the income generated by the [insert name of scholarship] Scholarship will provide at least one scholarship annually. Selection Criteria (choose one option): I/We do not wish to specify any selection criteria. We authorize [insert chapter name] Dollars for Scholars to use its existing selection criteria as specified in the chapters Awards Policy. I/We wish to have the following criterion/criteria used in the final determination of a recipient(s) for the [insert name of scholarship] Scholarship. [List criteria such as preference for education majors or Anywhere County students.] Award Presentation (choose one option): I/We would like to stipulate that the following person or their designee, present the [insert name of scholarship] Scholarship at the annual award ceremony: [insert name and contact information of person selected here] I/We would like a representative of the [insert chapter name] Dollars for Scholars to present the [insert name of scholarship] Scholarship at the annual award ceremony on my/our behalf. Special Terms [This is the place to list any specific terms or conditions made as part of this agreement. For example, when a scholarship will first be available for distribution; who should be contacted to discuss issues or questions regarding scholarships; whether the sponsor wants publicity regarding the establishment of the fund; who to contact if the sponsor moves away or dies, etc.] This agreement was made on Name of Donor(s) Address of Donor Phone/Fax/E-mail of Donor [insert date] .
(Signature of Fund Sponsor)
(Signature of Chapter President)
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Endowment Scholarship Agreement
SAMPLE TWO
Endowed Scholarship Agreement With
(chapter) Purpose: To establish an endowed scholarship program for [Donor] as outlined in the attached Restrictions to the Endowment for the purpose of [Donor] hereby agrees to transfer to [chapter], the sum of $ (the Program) in accordance with the establishing the terms and conditions herein contained.
Agreement:
1. [Chapter] shall establish initial assets, as well as any future contributions to the Program, as an identifiable endowed scholarship which will be established within the accounting records of [Chapter]. 2. The [Chapter] shall invest all assets in a prudent manner. Investments shall be made in accordance with policies established by the chapter board of directors. 3. [Chapter] shall manage the Program and distribute the annual income of the Program as scholarship(s) substantially in accordance with the Restrictions to the Endowment. 4. [Chapter] shall provide an annual report to the Donor including income, contributions, distributions, and asset balance of the Program. 5. In the event the Program and stated purpose of the contribution ceases to exist, all funds will be transferred to the (Chapters) general scholarship fund, or to some other similar program of an appropriate nonprofit entity exempt from tax as an organization described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, as solely determined by the chapter in consultation with the Donor. In no event shall any monies of the Program be returned to the Donor. 6. In the event (Chapter) ceases operations or otherwise determines that it is unwilling to continue management of the Program, all funds will be distributed to another organization substantially similar in purposes and functions as the (Chapter) provided that such newly designated organization is exempt from tax as an organization described in Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3) and comparable provisions of state law as solely determined by (Chapter) (in consultation with the Donor). 7. The investment and management of the assets of the Program will not violate any of the provisions of (Chapter)s governing instruments or any contract or other agreement with any third party. 8. The representations, warranties, covenants, and other information provided by the (Chapter) to the Donor herein do not either omit a material fact or contain any statement which is false or misleading in any material respect. 9. This agreement may not be assigned or transferred by (Chapter).
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10. All notices, requests, or other communications which may be or are required to be given by either the (Chapter) or the Donor to the other hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed sufficiently given, made, or delivered on the date the same is sent by United States mail, postage prepaid, addressed to the parties as herein below provided. Receipt of a party of any such communication shall be deemed sufficiently effected on the date actually received by the receiving party. For purposes hereof, each partys mailing address shall be as follows: Donor:
Chapter:
Either party may notify the other of such other address to which such notices, requests, or other communications shall be sent.
(Date) (Donor)
(Date)
(Chapter President)
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Restrictions to the Program Endowment It is agreed the interest earned on the principal of the Program endowment shall be used for the following purposes: EXAMPLE: Scholarships appropriate in amount and purpose as determined by the (chapter). EXAMPLE: Twenty-five percent (25%) of annual earnings shall be invested in the principal of the endowment
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
These restrictions shall remain in effect until (chapter), in consultation with the Donor, determines specific changes are necessary. Page 3 of 3
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Pass-Through Scholarship Agreement
SAMPLE
I/We wish to sponsor a Dollars for Scholars scholarship to local student(s) through [insert chapter name] Dollars for Scholars. This scholarship will be presented as [insert name of scholarship(s)]. Amount of Scholarship: Selection of Criteria: No specific criteria. I/we authorize the [chapter] to use the selection criteria outlined in the chapters Awards Policy. I/We wish to use the following criteria (use broad categories such as preference for education majors and if none apply use existing chapter selection criteria.): [List criteria such as preference for education majors or Anywhere County students.] Award Presentation (choose one option): I/We would like to stipulate that the following person or their designee, present the [insert name of scholarship] Scholarship at the annual award ceremony: [insert name and contact information of person selected here] I/We would like a representative of the [insert chapter name] Dollars for Scholars to present the [insert name of scholarship] Scholarship at the annual award ceremony on my/our behalf. Special Terms [This is the place to list any specific terms or conditions made as part of this agreement. For example, when dollars will first be available for distribution; who should be contacted to discuss issues or questions regarding scholarships; whether this is limited to one year or it is an annual award, etc.] This agreement was made on [insert date] . $
Name of Donor(s)/Organization Address of Donor Phone/Fax/E-mail of Donor
(Signature of Fund Sponsor)
(Signature of Chapter President)
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Frequently Asked Questions About Endowments and Scholarships

How do chapters determine what cash is available for scholarships based on the income their endowments might earn?
A. Chapters with one endowment (Anytown Dollars for Scholars Endowment Fund) can simply use the 5% rule described earlier. They can take the value of the chapter endowment on a given day (i.e. May 1st) regardless of the actual dollar value of the principal donations the endowment has received, determine what 5% of the value is, and then appropriate it for scholarships. Using this method a chapter endowment valued on May 1st at $50,000 would have $2,500 appropriated for scholarships (5% of $50,000=$2,500). If earnings are down and the chapters portfolio is not earning 5% or more, then a chapter board of directors might elect to use a lower percentage of the value of the endowment to protect the principle from invasion. If the chapters portfolio is earning greater than 5%, then a chapter board of directors might elect to use a higher percentage than 5% to make more scholarship dollars available to their students. B. Chapters with multiple individually named endowed scholarship funds may apply the 5% rule against each fund balance (usually the total of all principal gifts made to this fund), or they may apply the 5% rule against the value of the total portfolio. Most chapters with multiple named funds pool all the endowed funds into a single portfolio comprised of a variety of investment vehicles.
Mary Smith Memorial Scholarship Fund $10,000
Anytown Dollars for Scholars Scholarship Fund $75,000
Anytown High School Scholarship Fund $15,000
Here is an example. Anytown Dollars for Scholars has three named scholarship funds. The total of all principal gifts to all of the named funds is $100,000. The financial records of the chapter clearly indicate what the principal gifts have been for each individual fund. The total market value of the portfolio on May 1st is $110,000. To use the 5% rule based on the cost value of each fund balance, the process is simple. The Smith Fund would generate $500 for a scholarship (5% of $10,000 = $500) The Anytown Dollars for Scholars Fund would generate $3,750 for scholarships (5% of $75,000 = $3,750) The High School Fund would generate $750 for scholarships (5% of $15,000 = $750) To use the 5% rule against the market value of the total portfolio, the process is more complex. Apply the 5% rule (+/-) to the total portfolio value and calculate a figure to appropriate for scholarships based on what the portfolio is worth on May 1st. In this case, 5% of the value of the portfolio is $5,500 (5% of $110,000 = $5,500) Determine what the cost value of the endowment is by adding together the principal totals of each named fund (noted above at $100,000). Determine what percentage of the total cost value of each individual fund is. The Smith Fund is 10% of the total cost value (10,000 100,000 = .10 or 10%) The Anytown Dollars for Scholars chapter fund is 75% of the total cost value (75,000 100,000 = .75 or 75%) The Anytown High School Fund is 15% of the total cost value (15,000 100,000 = .15 or 15%) Go back to the figure already appropriated for scholarships based on the value of the portfolio, described above as $5,500. Apply the percentage of the total cost value of each named fund to the already-determined appropriation for scholarships.
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The Smith Fund would be allocated 10% of the total appropriation of $5,500, or $550 (10% of $5,500 = $550) The Anytown Dollars for Scholars chapter fund would be allocated 75% of the total appropriation of $5,500, or $4,125 (75% of $5,500 = $4,125) The Anytown High School Fund would be allocated 15% of the total appropriation of $5,500, or $825 (15% of $5,500 = $825) Chapters can make the process as detailed or as simple as they wish, but the process should be studied and voted on by the entire board of directors. C. In times of low return on investments, a spending rule can be instituted that helps a chapter protect against inflation and market trends. An example could be: Appropriate 5% of the average market value of the fund balance for the past three years [or past five years]. When interest falls below 5%, use only the current rate of return.
Why is 5% suggested? Can that percentage be changed?

Five-percent (5%) is a standard percentage used by many charities and encouraged by the IRS. Scholarship appropriations consistently below five-percent may bring into question the charitable intent of the chapter. Mary Smith, in the earlier example, made her bequest with the expectation that it would be used to generate scholarships in perpetuity. If a Dollars for Scholars community perceives that its chapter is not distributing enough scholarships, the chapters status as a charity could be challenged. The 5% rule is one of the reasons that Dollars for Scholars recommends that chapters establish a minimum gift amount in order to establish a named scholarship fund. Currently chapters around the country vary about that permanent amount. The range is as low as $1,000 to as high as $20,000. Most chapters gauge the community they serve and try their best to balance a minimum amount large enough to generate a meaningful scholarship while at the same time making the amount realistically manageable by the individuals who might be interested in establishing a named endowed scholarship. A minimum amount of $10,000 would produce, at 5%, a $500 scholarship yearly. Minimum amounts below that may not be perceived as able to generate a significant scholarship. Using 5% in conjunction with a $10,000 minimum endowed fund provides a baseline to begin the discussion, but the final determination must be based on the unique qualities of the Dollars for Scholars community. Certainly, many established chapters have observed a rise in the minimum amount over the years, from $2,000 in the 1960s to $10,000 today. A chapter may change the recommended scholarship distribution percentage, but there are pitfalls. Adjusting the percentage downward once in a while might be appropriate in an investment environment where earnings on reasonably conservative investments are lower than 5%. But if a chapter consistently appropriates less than 5% year after year, donors may question the intent of the chapter. On the other hand, if a chapter consistently distributes a higher percentage than 5%, particularly if earnings on its investments are not that high, the opportunity for sustained scholarships may be reduced as the principal is reduced while propping up higher award appropriations. Any adjustment to the general 5% distribution guideline should be made after a full discussion with the chapter board of directors and duly reflected in the minutes of that meeting.
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Handling Chapter Assets What about chapters with small endowments? It is difficult to have a diversified portfolio that generates meaningful income. What other options exist besides placing funds in Certificates of Deposit or low interest-bearing bank accounts?
As indicated in Section I, chapters often use local or regional Community Foundations to manage their funds for them, for a fee of course. Some chapters pay professional (either local or national investment companies) to invest their funds. No option, however, guarantees high earnings no matter the size of the endowment. For a thorough discussion about investing chapter assets, contact a Scholarship America staff person. The particulars of the options described here as well as others that you might have questions about can be better and more fully reviewed on the telephone or in a personal meeting.
Is there anything else a Dollars for Scholars chapter should have in place along with an endowment agreement template?
As stated earlier, all Dollars for Scholars chapters should have an investment policy outlining how its assets are handled. This includes operating funds, cash from fundraisers, as well as endowment funds. Potential donors will want to know that the chapters investments are part of a balanced, well-diversified portfolio.
Are there ways to create an endowment fund other than through fundraisers or gifts of cash or appreciated securities?
Many endowment funds are established through bequests or planned gifts. Bequests are usually arranged by the donor prior to their deaths and often attorneys preparing the wills and trust documents for their clients will call the donor chapter in advance for specific information with regard to the chapters 501(c)(3) status and other endowment-related questions. Planned gifts, on the other hand, generally provide certain income and tax advantages to donors during their lifetimes, and the actual gift is established at the time of the donors death. If your chapter has had inquiries about bequests or planned giving opportunities, please call a Scholarship America staff member. They can provide appropriate information, materials, illustrations, and consultations about such gifts.
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Treasurers Journal
The Treasurers Journal is designed to assist chapters with good record-keeping and with preparation of the annual Chapter Financial Report. A basic Excel spreadsheet has been developed and is updated yearly. This spreadsheet is available on the Chapter Portal (http://chapterportal.saportal.org) and is included on the enclosed CD. This spreadsheet is designed to allow the chapter to print off the required Financial Report with only slight modifications.
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Publicity and Public Relations
Corporate Identity and Graphic Standards

One of the most valuable assets of any organization is its Corporate Identity. A large part of the identity is graphics, particularly its symbol and logotype. For Dollars for Scholars, this includes the image of the eagle and the name Dollars for Scholars. Well-known and successful organizations, such as Apple, Macys, Target, and others have invested millions of dollars to establish firm graphic standards and an immediately recognizable corporate identity. They know this is essential to creating and maintaining a vivid image of their corporation in the minds of the public. Scholarship America has sought the same unified image and instant recognition for Dollars for Scholars.
Legal Requirements
The name Dollars for Scholars preceding the image of the eagle is registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office as a registered trademark of Scholarship America. The Dollars for Scholars name and symbol are the property of Scholarship America and may be used only by Scholarship America and its affiliates. Federal statutes govern the registration and use of trademarks, requiring that they be used in specific ways while prohibiting their use in others. The trademark and artwork symbolize the identity of Dollars for Scholars, and when placed on publications, materials and other items, serve to distinctly identify their ownership. When used properly, a registered trademark provides its owner with legal protection against others who might use the trademark without permission or employ symbols that too closely resemble the registered trademark. As part of the agreement with Scholarship America, each Dollars for Scholars chapter or affiliate has been licensed to use the name Dollars for Scholars in its name and on its materials and promotions. The agreement requires the chapter to use the trademarked name and symbol in the form and manner specified by Scholarship America for services authorized and approved by Scholarship America. Federal regulations require that the trademark be used in its registered format. Federal regulations governing registered trademarks require that chapters and affiliates use it correctly. To assist each chapter or affiliate, Dollars for Scholars provides each chapter with electronic files to use for printing and publicity as needed. If you would like an electronic logo file customized for your chapter, please e-mail dollarsforscholars@scholarshipamerica.org. Specify the type of file format you need (.tif, .jpg, .eps, etc.), and provide an e-mail address to which the logo file may be sent. There is no charge for this design service. See samples on page 3-3.
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Protecting the Trademark

Both the words Dollars for Scholars and the eagle image (the design) are trademarks registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Dollars for Scholars chapters and affiliates can protect the chapters name and image from infringement by following these guidelines whenever the name and image appear: 1. The Dollars for Scholars logo must always appear with the registered mark symbol ( ). 2. Do not alter the Dollars for Scholars logo by adding to or deleting from its words or graphic elements; it must always appear as a separate element in any of your promotions. 3. The first and most prominent time the words Dollars for Scholars appear in a document, they must be followed with the registered trademark symbol ( ). For example, if the page has a heading containing Dollars for Scholars and words are used again in the text below, follow both instances with the registered trademark symbol. 4. The serif typeface in the logo is Big Caslon MT; the sans serif one is Helvetica Neue. Do not reproduce the Dollars for Scholars logo with any other typeface. 5. Each Dollars for Scholars Chapter must use the chapter logo created for them in all print and Web materials. The Dollars for Scholars logo must remain complete with the eagle image as part of the logo. 6. When printed in color, the chapter name and the words Dollars for Scholars should be printed using the Scholarship America Red (PMS 202). The Scholarship America Blue (PMS 287) should be used for the tagline A Chapter of Dollars for Scholars, if applicable. The Eagle image should be printed in Blue (PMS 287) and the diploma that the Eagle is holding should be printed in Red (PMS 202). 7. The Dollars for Scholars logo may be used in different sizes depending on the needs of the promotional piece. Always reduce or enlarge the logo proportionally. Chapters may request camera-ready stat sheets from the regional/national office. The stat sheet contains the logo in six sizes. 8. The Dollars for Scholars Eagle image is a separately registered Scholarship America service mark and is used as part of the Dollars for Scholars logo. Whether the Eagle image is used with the text or used alone, it must always appear with the registered service mark symbol. As with the Dollars for Scholars logo, the Eagle image may not be manipulated. It may, however, be used in different sizes, but must always be reduced or enlarged proportionally. 9. Dollars for Scholars chapters may use the Scholarship America tagline, College doesnt happen by chance. The registered trademark symbol needs to be used every time the tagline is used, and the chapter should incorporate on the Web site or document being published that the College doesnt happen by chance tagline is a registered trademark of Scholarship America, used with permission through the Dollars for Scholars chapter agreement. If you have questions about any of the guidelines in the document, or if you have questions about the use of a Scholarship America trademark in a way not specifically addressed, call the regional/national Dollars for Scholars office.
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Logo Usage Fast Facts

The Dollars for Scholars logo must only be used in a horizontal format. The typefaces used in the logo are Big Caslon MT and Helvetica Neue. The logo may be reproduced in color (using PMS 202 and PMS 287, according to the guidelines) or black and white. In either case, the logo looks best on a white background.
Examples of Appropriate Logo Usage

Correct:
Incorrect: Do not distort the logos proportions
Do not remove the tagline from the logo
Do not reverse the logo
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Customized State and Chapter Logos

Each Dollars for Scholars chapter needs a customized logo for print and Web use. Contact the regional or national Dollars for Scholars office to receive the logo free of charge for your local Dollars for Scholars chapter. Chapters that do not include the words Dollars for Scholars in their chapter name will receive a logo that contains the tagline, A Chapter of Dollars for Scholars underneath their chapter name, in addition to the eagle image.
Examples of Customized Region and Chapter Logos:

Example of Regional Logo:
Examples of Chapter Logos:
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Dont Have Dollars for Scholars in Your Chapter Name?

Even if the words Dollars for Scholars are not a part of your chapter name, you should still use it as a trade name or slogan for fundraising, publicity, and volunteer recruitment. Local chapters may benefit from the increasing volume of publicity generated by Dollars for Scholars nationally and increased cooperative activity of local chapters in the same state or region. Using (City Name) Dollars for Scholars as a trade name for fundraising, publicity and volunteer recruitment does not require a local chapter to change its bylaws or to officially change its current legal name. Every chapter that does not use Dollars for Scholars in its name will use the slogan A Chapter of Dollars for Scholars in its official logo. You can also follow your chapters name with the same phrase when you are referring to your chapter in print or Web materials, in order to emphasize your association with the national organization.
Old Supplies vs. New Logo Requirements

A sample of new letterhead is found in the Sample Documents section of the Chapter Guidebook as well as in the Members Only section of the Dollars for Scholars Web site.
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Public Relations
What is public relations?
Public relations is the work that your chapter does to keep your community informed about, and ultimately involved with, your chapter.
Why should a chapter keep the community informed?

There are two key reasons for keeping your community informed of your chapters activities: 1. To provide information demonstrating growth and impact. This information will generate positive publicity as well as plant the seeds for future donations. The goal is to reach a cross-section of the community if the public is unaware of your progress and goals, then growth is less likely. 2. Publicly-supporting charities, as defined by the IRS, have an obligation to provide the public with regular and current information about their work and accomplishments.
Who should receive the information?

Your chapters current and potential donors should receive strategically-written and delivered updates. Nearly every person in your community should be in your target audience! Consider the different sub-groups of the community and the target opportunities available for an audience: Community sub-group Chapter award program attendees PR Opportunities Place flyers on each chair or every other chair at chapter awards programs. People will read the information as they wait for the program to begin. Attend one meeting every year to present a quick review of why your chapter exists and the progress made. Provide information about memorial giving, named scholarships, etc. Encourage pass-through named scholarships or permanently endowed named scholarship funds Put table tents on tables, flyers on chairs, and posters where people stand in line or regularly stop for other services. Attend reunion meetings. Consider a one-page newsletter to describe the scholarship challenge and to promote alumni giving. Include inserts in existing mailings to alumni to promote the Dollars for Scholars mission and annual Class of 67 scholarships.
Senior Citizens group
Business/Civic leaders
Chapter event attendees
Chapter alumni
How should information be presented? Present publicity consistently, frequently, attractively, and accurately Focus on the five Ws: who, what, when, where, and why Be creative, but dont be afraid to repeat yourself. Advertisers say it takes a person 7 to 11 times to really grasp a promotional message Keep messages simple and to the point
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Getting the Publics Attention

Capturing the favorable attention of the public is one of the best ways to ensure your chapters success. It is critical to a chapters long-term success to be highly visible in the community through on-going, positive public relations efforts as well as through promoting specific chapter events.
What deserves attention?

The following topics can help raise awareness of your chapter. Your chapter can bring these issues to your communitys attention through press releases and letters to the editor of the local newspaper, posters, fundraising mailings, etc. Information that illustrates what Dollars for Scholars is doing and how it is improving access to higher education, such as: Addressing the rising cost of higher education Responding to the failure of government to respond to the rising costs of education Supporting the need for more local scholarships Reducing the high school dropout rate and low achievement levels of students The important and unique role your chapter plays in mobilizing support for postsecondary education: Awarding scholarships based on more than academic achievement Having the support of a national organization Providing an umbrella/coordinator role for other community scholarship efforts Partnering with hundreds of postsecondary education institutions Providing opportunities for tax-exempt contributions, both large and small The activities your chapter sponsors and successes it achieves: Fundraising activities and events Scholarship information and financial aid workshop offerings Cooperative efforts with businesses, education institutions, and other organizations Award distribution Announcements of special gifts received, endowment goals reached, etc.
Who deserves attention?

The following people and situations make for good publicity. People responsible for your chapters success Volunteers who contribute time and energy Donors Board members who make presentations to community groups Students Scholarship recipients Beneficiaries of the chapters academic support programs Successful alumni
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How to Get the Publics Attention

1. Develop promotional materials Newspapers: state, local, ethnic or issues-oriented (news and feature stories, calendar announcements for events, etc.) TV: network and cable news, talk shows, public service announcements Radio: talk shows, public service announcements Newsletters: community organizations and businesses, school parent & teachers groups Computer bulletin boards, online news groups Websites (high school, community, business links) 2. Develop promotional materials Flyers, brochures, banners, photo displays, placemats, posters, postcards, table tents, bulletin board displays (use your imagination) Scholarship America promotional items Slide shows, videos, CDs 3. Organize special events Dollars for Scholars Week/Month proclamation by local officials associated with a high profile chapter event Award distribution event Recognition events for donors and volunteers Fundraising campaign kickoff event Kickoff event for new academic support program Media breakfast to introduce media to your organization 4. Garner support from schools and organizations friendly to the chapter Business or other organizations that can use your promotional materials as inserts in other mailings or with their products (such as in grocery bags or with utility bills) High school and postsecondary counselors who can distribute chapter literature Volunteer service bureaus or other community associations that do joint promotion Exhibits and announcements at community functions Presentation of awards during graduation ceremony Events held by major donors to honor recipients Events held by corporate sponsors 5. Spread your story by word-of-mouth Maintain ongoing promotion of your chapter through discussions with friends and associates Ask volunteers especially students to commit to inviting a minimum number of people to participate in a particular chapter event or activity 6. Organize a speakers bureau Offer presentations about the chapter by chapter volunteers to community businesses, educators, and community groups
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Most Common Methods of Generating Publicity 1. Newspaper/radio/TV coverage of events

Prior to event: Send news releases, media advisories and/or public service announcements about your event to local media During event: Cover event. Take note of who is there, what is said, etc. Following the event: Publish thank you letters; send news releases regarding results of event (Appropriate newsletter, media advisory and public service announcement formats are described below. Samples are contained on the sample CD and in Chapter 7 of this Guidebook.) 2. Produce a regular newsletter (quarterly or annually) for community members and alumni 3. Posters/table tents/flyers for annual publicity opportunities at Dollars for Scholars events and with as many groups as possible, such as: Lions, Kiwanis, senior citizens groups, other service or community groups Chamber meetings Community Days/all-school reunions Bank statement inserts, mail stuffers or grocery bag stuffers Bookmark promotion pieces 4. Annual Report/summary for distribution on a regular basis
Appropriate News Release Format

News release format: Use 8.5 X 11-inch white paper Use black ink, via typewriter or computer word processor (do not use dot matrix print) Use only one side of the paper, one page if possible. Allow a 1-inch margin on each side of the page and at the bottom. Double-space your copy. Indent the first line of each paragraph five spaces Duplicated copies of a release are acceptable as long as they are clear, sharp and clean. Place the name, address, and telephone number of your chapter in the upper left-hand corner of the first page. Also give the name of the person to contact for further information. Type: FOR RELEASE [DATE] OR THEREAFTER or FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE a few spaces above the first paragraph. If more than one page is required, insert the page number in the upper right-hand corner of all pages after the first page. If more than one page is required, type more at the bottom of each page, except the last page. Always end the news release with a centered # # # or - 0 - . On the upper left-hand corner of all pages but the first, use one or two words that identify the news release, so the pages can be identified if they are inadvertently separated. Always include organizational boilerplate information within or at the end of your news release. Some information to include: specific information about what your chapter does and how much money was raised in the previous year. News releases may be emailed, faxed, or mailed to your press contacts.
(Adapted from: Publicity and Public Relations, Dorothy I. Doty, Barrons Business Library 1990.) See Section 7 for sample news releases and boilerplate information.
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Appropriate Media Advisory Format

Media advisories are similar to news releases, with the sole purpose of publicizing an event. Media advisories contain brief information answering the five Ws: Who, What, Where, Why, and When. See the enclosed CD for a sample media advisory.
Public Service Announcements (PSAs)

PSAs are intended to strengthen other press efforts. Usually 10- to 60-second spots on radio or television, you can use them to reach your target audience to supplement your other outreach. Write scripts of 10, 30 and 60 seconds to increase the likelihood that your local radio station can fit in your announcement between paid advertising and other programming. Because of their brevity, PSAs should be designed to get one simple, direct message across. As with other advertisements, all PSAs should be designed to elicit a particular response or action from the audience to get them to donate to Dollars for Scholars, volunteer at an event, or simply call for more information. Scripts should be clear and active in tone. Keep sentences short and the language concrete. Use simple and easily understood words. Timing must be exact. Test all scripts by reading them out loud, timed with a stopwatch. A general guideline for length is as follows: 10 seconds ...........................10-15 words 20 seconds ...........................35-40 words 30 seconds ...........................55-65 words 60 seconds .......................120-125 words Make sure you include a cover letter with your PSA, indicating the date youd like your message to air. (Adapted from: Promoting Issues & Ideas: A guide to public relations for nonprofit organizations, Public Interest Public Relations, The Foundation Center, 1987)
Whats in a chapter summary/annual report?

Highlight the accomplishments of your chapter and tell your story simply. Invite your targeted audiences to help. Good publicity will make donors proud of their investments in the Dollars for Scholars chapter and entice new donors and volunteers to step forward.
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Volunteer and Donor Recognition

Volunteers and donors need and deserve to be recognized for the contributions they make to your chapter. Plan special recognition opportunities possibly during your chapters annual meeting, the student award ceremonies, major fundraising events, or National Volunteer Month. Use Dollars for Scholars promotional items, such as pens, mugs, or t-shirts for recognition gifts. Ideas from across the country include: 1. Post a volunteer or donor honor roll in a prominent community location. Add names as new members are added to the group. 2. Publish a special recognition ad or letter to the editor in your local newspaper. 3. Print a list of donor and volunteer names in the high school graduation program. 4. Send personal thank you notes immediately following an event or donation. 5. Invite sponsors to personally present their scholarships at award events. 6. List contributors/memorials/special gifts on a quarterly basis in community newspapers, newsletters, school newspapers, and on websites. 7. Use local radio or cable TV to highlight program successes and thank volunteers. Most local stations welcome annual or quarterly visits. 8. Give a scholarship in the name of a founding board member, past president, or other significant leader. 9. Establish special giving categories (such as Century Club), honoring donors who have contributed a certain level or higher. This can be for single gifts or gifts over time. 10. Present tokens of appreciation for services to volunteers whether they are board members or not. Appreciate all forms of volunteerism and support.
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National Programs for Recognition of Outstanding Volunteers and Chapters

Dollars for Scholars National Honor Roll
The Dollars for Scholars National Honor Roll recognizes volunteers who have contributed in a significant way to their chapters success. The award is approved by the Scholarship America Governing Board and provides both national and local recognition to an outstanding volunteer from a Dollars for Scholars chapter. All chapters in active standing with Dollars for Scholars may nominate one or more local volunteers annually to the National Honor Roll. National Honor Roll volunteers receive a personalized award plaque and the special Dollars for Scholars gold logo pin. Each volunteers name and the chapters name will also be engraved on a permanent plaque at Scholarship Americas National Headquarters, and nominees will be recognized in Scholarship Americas annual report. Guidelines for Eligibility: 1. The nominee must have three or more years of active participation in the local Dollars for Scholars chapter. 2. The nominees must exhibit commitment to the Dollars for Scholars mission. 3. The nominee must have been instrumental in successfully guiding the course of the chapter in a significant and beneficial way. The nominating chapter submits a $100 fee for each candidate. All income from the National Honor Roll supports Scholarship Americas Community Volunteer Service Awards (CVSA) program, which recognizes outstanding volunteer service. All students from active Dollars for Scholars chapters are eligible to compete for CVSA awards.
Golden Tassel Chapter Service Award

Every day in communities across America, Dollars for Scholars volunteers work to support local students by raising money, providing academic support, raising expectations, and encouraging higher levels of achievement. Many students have said that of all the scholarships they received, the one from their Dollars for Scholars chapter back home had the most meaning, because it represents the support and encouragement of their friends, families, and neighbors. Today, more than 1,200 Dollars for Scholars chapters are in operation, each involving an average of 35 adult and student volunteers. Each chapter is unique because of the individuals within the group and the special needs and goals of the community they serve. Large or small, urban or rural, thriving and well-endowed with permanent funds or struggling against challenging circumstances, Dollars for Scholars chapters work tirelessly and selflessly to serve their communities. The Golden Tassel Chapter Service Award honors and gives recognition to chapters that have performed outstanding service to their communities. Each year, two Golden Tassel Awards are presented; one to a well-established chapter four years old or more, and the other to a relatively newer chapter three years or younger. Nomination Guidelines Dollars for Scholars chapters must be nominated for the award on an official nomination form. The nomination may be submitted by a chapter official, volunteer, student, community member, member of another chapter, or Dollars for Scholars staff person. Anyone in a position to have observed the work and achievements of the chapter may submit a nomination.
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Publicity and Public Relations Awards for Winning Chapters Golden Tassel Award recipients receive a $1,000 scholarship to be granted to a student chosen by the chapter. As special recognition for the achievements of the winning chapter and its volunteers, the chapter will receive a plaque to display and a unique embosser to use on official chapter documents and letters. Contact the regional or national office for more information about the Golden Tassel Award. The Award nomination forms are available on the Chapter Portal (http://chapterportal.saportal.org) during May and June. Nomination postmark deadline is July 1st.
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Fundraising
Quick Facts About Fundraising

People give to a Dollars for Scholars chapter because they are interested in education and in students from their community. They also believe Dollars for Scholars can and does meet a need they care about. The job of the fundraising committee is to effectively articulate the growing need for financial support to help local students reach higher levels of achievement. Then, of course, the committee must ask for the money.
Three Kinds of Funds

Money raised by chapters falls into one or more of the following categories: 1. Annually distributed funds raised by chapters usually through events or activities 2. Sponsored funds donated by other groups, such as service clubs, as distributed through the chapter 3. Permanently restricted (endowment) funds, managed by the chapter, with only the interest earned distributed for scholarships on an annual basis
How Funds are Raised

Money is raised in one or more of the following ways: 1. Individual solicitation such as door-to-door canvassing, phonathons, telethons, and direct mail 2. Personal solicitation of major gifts from selected donors 3. Fundraising events such as golf tournaments, pancake breakfasts, community auctions 4. Unsolicited gifts received from death notices, wills and bequests, or special occasions such as teacher retirement parties or class reunions
Four Types of Donors

Potential donors generally fall into one of the categories below. Each type of giver warrants a different fundraising strategy. 1. New donors 2. Repeat/Renewed donors 3. Upgradeable donors (those who might give more if invited to do so) 4. Planned giving donors
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Fundraising
Understanding Why People Give*

People give because they believe in the organization and its mission.
Giving is a natural way people show support for what they care about. Your job is to give them a reason and a way to show that support. You are not begging or arm-twisting. You are inviting them to actively participate. You are saying you think they care enough to share what they have with others.
People give because they are asked.

You cant sit back and hope the money will flow in. You have to ask. People in your community already support a number of good causes and Dollars for Scholars can be one of them. Dont hesitate to expect generosity from people, but do so in a very respectful and sincere way. Some people, of course, will say no. (Always respect their right to do so.) But many will say yes, and thats the joy.
People give money to people.

The personal touch in asking is often what makes the most powerful appeal. Personalize every possible aspect of your fundraising. Find out who has personal relationships with your donors (including student award recipients) and get them involved. Personal appeals and thank yous make a world of difference even better if the person asking is enthusiastic and well-respected by the donor.
People give to make a change for the good.

Contributors give for many reasons for recognitions, to belong, to assuage guilt, for tax advantages, - but the underlying reason is to create a positive change of some kind. Keep the chapters mission and potential accomplishments before the eyes of would-be contributors. Tell the stories of scholarship recipients in your publications and newsletters, including photos. Put a face on your fundraising.
People give money to success, not distress.

People want to associate with successful ventures that are achieving something positive rather than with failing operations that need rescuing. Dont stress organizational needs. Instead, emphasize the opportunities and benefits your chapter presents to the donor to make a change for the good. * Adapted from Fundraising and the Nonprofit Board Member by Fisher Howe, published by the National Center for Nonprofit Boards.
One principle of fundraising is that people who give once will give again. But if you stop asking them, theyll stop giving or theyll start giving to something else. Many people trying to raise money can never bring themselves to ask for really large amounts. Yet, for those you are soliciting, its a compliment to ask someone for a large sum. - Senator Allen Kransten, a top U.S. Senate fundraiser
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Fundraising
Understanding How People Give

There are many ways to give to a charitable organization. Most people begin with a relatively small gift. A donor who respects the work or the charity, and who takes pride in its accomplishments, may decide to give more. The Donor Pyramid provides an overview of useful strategies.
Indiana University Center on Philanthropy
The Fundraising School
THE DONOR PYRAMID

Fundraising Strategies
Planned Gift Donor

Personal contact only
Capital Donor
Personal contact only
Special / Major Gift Donor

Personal contact / letter / phone call
Renewed / Upgraded Donor

Personal contact / letter / phone call
First Time Donor

Direct mail / telemarketing / fundraising benefit / media / door-to-door
Universe of Prospects
June 2011
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Fundraising
Getting Started
As chapters form fundraising committees and think about their fundraising goals and strategies, consider these ideas:
1. Set a goal for steady growth.

Target at least one community event and one student event each year to draw attention to your cause and spread the word. Alumni efforts (often in conjunction with class reunions or community days) are also important. Find ways to make the Dollars for Scholars name well known in your community. The goal is to develop a steady rate of growth each year, indicating the organization is making every effort to reach as many students as possible. Steady growth means you have an effective organization and others will be more likely to donate.
2. Develop the Board of Directors to be ongoing and visible representatives of the chapter.
Build a diverse board with membership rotating from various sectors of your community. Try to avoid being a mom and pop operation with little opportunity to adapt to the changing needs of the community. A diverse board spreads the word of the chapters accomplishments to more people and is more appealing to the many sectors of the community. Ensure that the board reflects representation from many sectors of the community.
3. Spread the word throughout the community about giving opportunities.

Ask, who needs to know about the chapter? Funeral directors, financial planners, accountants, attorneys, clergy, civic groups, senior citizens, parent-teacher groups, business networking groups What groups meet regularly that can provide annual opportunities to share the chapters progress and provide donor recognition? Senior citizen organizations, service groups, business organizations, alumni gatherings and reunions, student gatherings and organizations
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Fundraising
Fundraising Ideas Unlimited

The following pages contain many ideas in both a list format and a more descriptive format. Chapters across the United States have been very creative in their efforts and these ideas can be adapted to fit your community. The Scholarship America/Dollars for Scholars staff is available to discuss these ideas and help answer your questions.
1. A-Thons a. Bike-a-thon b. Bowl-a-thon c. Dance-a-thon d. Phonathon e. Radiothon f. Read-a-thon g. Skate-a-thon h. Swim-a-thon i. Telethon j. Walk-a-thon 2. Auctions a. Celebrity Items b. Penny c. Services d. Silent e. School f. TV/Radio 3. Bazaars a. Childrens b. Holiday c. Hunters 4. Business / Foundation Drives a. Letter b. Matching Funds c. Personal Visit 5. Carnival / Festival a. Amusements b. Booths c. Demonstrations d. Exhibits e. Performing Arts 6. Contests a. Fishing b. Guessing Games - car falls thru ice - date / time temperature hits __ degrees c. Kiss a Pig d. Penny Drive e. Photo-guess who f. Pizza or pie eating 7. Dances a. Ball b. Barn Dance c. Dinner Dance d. Record Hop e. Street Dance f. Square Dance g. 20s/30s/40s/ 50s/60s Dance h. Holiday Theme (Sadie Hawkins, Halloween, etc.) 8. Deferred Gifts a. Annuities b. Bequests c. Life Insurance d. Trusts 9. Direct Mail a. Alumni b. Corporations/ Foundations c. Former Award Recipients d. Individuals e. Retail Business 10. Entertainment a. Amateur Night b. Aqua Show c. Big Drawdown d. Variety Show / Follies e. Circus f. Concert g. Demolition Derby h. Fashion Show i. Film Showing j. Horse Show k. Ice Skating Show l. Las Vegas Night m. Magic Show n. Music Festival o. Night at the Races p. Play q. Puppet Show r. Rodeo s. Theater Production 11. Fairs a. Book b. Childrens c. Craft 12. Game Parties a. Bingo b. Cards c. Mah Jong d. Monopoly e. Scrabble f. Trivial Pursuit 13. Individual Solicitation a. Payroll Deductions b. Permanent Funds c. Tax Check-Off 14. Meals, etc. a. All-you-can-eat b. Banquet c. Brunch d. Box Social e. Chicken/Pork Chop Supper f. Chili/Spaghetti Supper g. Cocktail Party h. Coffee Kiosk i. Cook-off j. Concession Stand k. Ethnic Supper l. Gourmet Dinner m. Oktoberfest th n. Old-fashioned 4 of July Picnic o. Munchies Box p. Progressive Dinner q. Ring Dinner Club r. Smorgasbord s. Tasting Luncheon t. Texas Barbeque u. Wine-tasting Party 15. Miscellaneous a. Bathe-in for Dogs b. Beach Party c. Car Bash d. Coin Containers e. Corn/Bean Drops f. Cow Chip Bingo g. Demonstrations h. Flea Markets i. Hayride j. Mini-courses k. Newspaper Supplement l. Scavenger Hunt m. Sleigh Ride n. Travelogue o. Lecture p. Turkey Shoot q. Vending Machines r. Traffic Stoppers / Toll Booths 16. Raffles a. Food b. Donated Items c. Get-away Weekend 17. Sales a. Event - Bake Sale - Bread Sale - Consignment Sale - Craft Extravaganza - Flea Market - Garage Sale - Plant Sale - Rummage Sale - Thrift Shop - White Elephant Sale b. Product - Books - Buttons - Bumper Stickers - Calendars - Candles - Candy - Cookbooks - Fruit - Greeting Cards - Magazines - Seeds/Plants 18. Service Projects a. Addressing Envelopes b. Car Wash c. Consumer Testing of Products d. Flowers on Special Holidays e. Recycling Aluminum/ Glass f. Servant for a Day (errands, babysitting, cleaning, etc.) g. Staging Childrens Parties h. Plant Sales for Mothers Day 19. Shows a. Antique b. Art c. Craft d. Farm e. Hobby f. Industrial/ Trade g. Pet 20. Sports Events a. Clinics/ Lessons b. Chess/ Checkers Tournament c. Faculty/ Student Event d. Golf, Tennis, Ping-Pong Tournament e. Donkey Basketball/ Softball f. Leagues g. Pro/Am Event h. Race of any Kind 21. Tours a. Art/Craft Studios b. Bus c. Garden d. House - Architecture (new housing division) - Collections - Furnishings - Holiday - Remodeling - Rooms - Table Settings e. Industry
June 2011
4-5
Fundraising
Fundraising Ideas Around the Country

NOTE: Chapters listed may or may not be involved with these activities at this time. Contact Scholarship America/Dollars for Scholars staff for updated information. Make sure that your chapter has the proper amount of liability insurance in place before conducting an event that may involve risk.
1. Endowment / Memorials
Chapters may wish to sponsor awareness campaigns with a variety of local professionals, including funeral home directors, estate planners, and attorneys. A sample memorial envelope and contribution recognition note card is available from Scholarship America/Dollars for Scholars staff to help chapters interested in making envelopes locally available. Chapters using this method usually publish names of contributors in newsletters or newspaper ads on a regular basis (i.e. quarterly). Sample brochures, ads, and newsletters are also available.
2. Business Sponsorships
Any business can create its own scholarship and publicly display their support for Dollars for Scholars. For example, a business can provide a kick-back percentage of sales during a specific day, week, or month. Some businesses prefer to provide money for their own sponsored scholarship. The chapter manages the application/selection process and the business provides the money for the award. Such scholarships can be annual pass-through gifts or annual additions to a business endowed scholarship.
3. Fraternal / Civic Organization Support Campaign

Each monthly meeting of any interested organization can include a Dollars for Scholars collection box/jar. Members contribute $1 each time they meet to demonstrate their ongoing support. One community health club began their project by asking for the $1 that members might be tempted to put into a soft drink or candy machine. The collection jar was later placed near the machines and the proceeds increased. This strategy is dependent upon one to two dedicated club/organization members who will be responsible for promotion and collection. The chapter may also wish to designate a specific time period such as the month of May or the winter quarter.
4. Key to Education Campaign: Scholarships

A lapel pin sporting the Dollars for Scholars logo is placed on a card promoting Dollars for Scholars. A donation of $5 to $10 will get you a pin! Community events are the best place to promote pin sales as people interact throughout the day and ask others what the pin is about and how they can get one. For example, a table display can be set up at a local community day's event to publicize Dollars for Scholars, the chapters success and growth over time, to introduce the new organization, or to emphasize the opportunities for establishing individually named endowed scholarships.
5. Class Reunion
Chapters may develop a special flyer to share with class reunion planners. The promotional brochure can encourage each class to support Dollars for Scholars by asking alumni to make specific contributions (for example, groups may ask for $59 to represent their membership in the Class of 59 or $20 to represent the 20-year reunion). A plaque can be placed on the wall at the school to identify the special support from the supporting classes and also to serve as a challenge to future classes.
6. Community / School Denim Days

Businesses join together to promote wearing denim on Fridays for $1 that is donated to the Dollars for Scholars chapter. This can be done weekly, monthly, or a couple of times a year. Each participating business has a sign or window cling indicating they are a Dollars for Scholars supporter. Another version of this addresses faculty and staff in the school system. Each employee is asked to donate $10 for the privilege of wearing denim (or another casual kind of clothing usually not worn by staff) once a month during the school year. Specific days, such as the day before a vacation, are listed on the school calendar and employees who sign up are given a pin or window cling to indicate their support. A poster near the office displays names of those participating. All proceeds may create a named scholarship (i.e. High School Staff and Faculty Award) on an annual basis.
June 2011
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Fundraising 7. Community Pancake Breakfast, Spaghetti Supper, Soup and Sandwich Day, Summer Garden Tour, Bake Sales, Carnivals, Plays, Dinner Theaters, Post-Prom Parties
All of these activities have a personal touch that fits the community. To provide added clout to such events, chapters can seek matching funds from various organizations. Other ideas include magicians, comedians, and hypnotists for special events, but often the cost for these limit their practical use.
8. Junior High School Dances

Middle School and/or Junior High students are always asking for dances. One chapter sponsors dances and provides some extras such as planned dances to get everyone on the dance floor and using Junior and Senior students to teach special line dances or demonstrate swing dance and interact with students. Proceeds provide a student-funded scholarship each year. Other chapters have mother-son and fatherdaughter dances for elementary students.
9. Raffles
A variety of items can be raffled. Some chapters use a calendar or cash raffle approach. Community members purchase a raffle ticket for $20 - $25. A set number of tickets must be sold and a name is drawn at set intervals (such as specific events, like ball games or a specific time marked on the calendar) for prizes of $100 to $500, depending on the size of the project. Many chapters raise significant dollars with limited work on this project. Other chapters have raffles that revolve around special items or events such as Valentines Day or airline tickets that may be donated through a generous persons frequent flyer miles. Special vacation/getaway packages within the state are also popular, such as a weekend sports or theater event with tickets to the game, and lodging and restaurant choices. With all raffles check with your state/local offices for gambling/gaming regulations.
10. Carnivals / Mini-Carnivals

One chapter conducts a traditional carnival each spring and students operate each booth. Another chapter does a mini-carnival after weekend ball games. The adults may go to attend a booster club meeting or visit in the lunchroom while older students operate a limited number of activities for other students. Tickets are priced reasonably such as 3 for $1 and something is available for all ages. Activities vary so students enjoy more than one mini-carnival each year.
11. Special Events Around Seasonal Opportunities

Some communities host special events around seasonal opportunities such as summer parades or hunting season. For example, one chapter hosts a Hunters Breakfast each fall during hunting season.
12. Phonathon
This is a very common activity across the country. Students call community members seeking pledges/ donations. Check the Chapter Portal for guidelines to help conduct an effective, successful phonathon.
13. Practice ACT / SAT Sessions

Students are provided special awareness sessions from professionals who donate their time and sample testing opportunities for a small fee, which is donated to the local Dollars for Scholars chapter.
14. Bucks for Baskets

A business signs up to be the sponsor of each basketball game. Some chapters use the total score of each team at half-time and publicly recognize the business at half-time as they present the check. Others use the end of game score and have a banner displayed throughout the game identifying the sponsor. Another school finds a sponsor to donate a set amount for every 3-point basket. Cheerleaders may toss Dollars for Scholars t-shirts or small basketballs with the Dollars for Scholars name and logo into the crowd during each time out or when a 3-point basket is made. This idea can be adapted for other sports as well.
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Fundraising 15. Community Projects

Students, faculty, and interested community members may identify a community project and receive a donation for their efforts. For example, when park buildings need painting, the work can be done by the students and community members and dollars budgeted for the work are sent to Dollars for Scholars. The emphasis is on having students give back to the community, but dollars available are donated to Dollars for Scholars.
16. Athletic Events

A host of possibilities are available from sponsored golf tournaments, bowling tournaments, elementary basketball/volleyball tournaments, community walkathons, races, football tailgate parties, hoop shoots, 3-on-3 tournaments, and faculty or alumni basketball games. One chapter works through the State Gaming Commission and offers a Monday Nigh Football Raffle (legally sell squares on a board). Another option is to host elementary and junior high mini-camps. Younger students look up to older athletes and appreciate their attention. Junior and senior players in any sport can host a mini-camp (for example, 3 Saturday morning sessions for $25) and all proceeds go to the Dollars for Scholars chapter.
17. Faculty / Support Staff Projects

Teachers and support staff often develop a specific event that indicates their support for staying in school and continuing on to postsecondary education. Some have a designated teacher/staff scholarship fund within the local Dollars for Scholars chapter to create positive community relations. Events can be wacky to serious including pie-throwing contests, duct-tape the teacher day, and kiss the pig. Others may use a more traditional method, such as payroll deduction for Dollars for Scholars support.
18. Dollars for Scholars Auction (silent or live)

Traditionally the auction is done by soliciting products or services from businesses and conducting either a silent or live auction. Auctions can be family events, including children and adults, providing bidding opportunities for all ages. Auctions may also be adult-only events, providing appetizers or a meal. Tickets can be sold in advance when food is offered to help with planning. Communities with successful auctions have also used some non-traditional approaches. For example, community members may donate a special talent/ service (i.e. wood carving, painting a room in a house, home-cooked gourmet meal, lawn service). The planning committee may want to avoid business solicitations for free items, and instead purchase products at a reduced rate. Some businesses have access to special tickets to events such as local or area symphonies, musicals, theater, or sports events, and they may be willing to donate their tickets. One chapter capitalizes on the collector angle by contacting a number of famous athletes, musicians, authors, politicians, and business people for autographed books, jerseys, balls, CDs, paintings, and unique items. Other fun additions are a white elephant item and mystery package. The mystery box may contain a $30 value or a $100 value and the bidding becomes more fun. Community fun is important to make the auction an event people will want to attend.
19. Guess the Weight of the Pumpkin (and other similar activities)
Young students enjoy this type of activity and it provides early recognition of Dollars for Scholars. Prizes can be traditional, such as money or movie tickets, or unique such as passbooks allowing students to go to lunch early, have a special seat/desk in the classroom, etc.
20. Outrageous Principal Day

Elementary students enjoy wacky events. One chapter asked each student to bring a dollar for the jar in their classroom. If 75% of the class or more participated, the class was allowed to attend a special rally where the principal dyed/spiked his hair for the rest of the day! Enough was raised to offer another scholarship. A variety of outrageous activities can be used.
June 2011
4-8
Fundraising 21. Endowment Fund Campaign

One chapter is building an endowment fund by setting aside a portion of the towns earnings from a large Keno establishment. The towns goal it to give every student full tuition for college.
22. Food Sales

The CSF of Parkersburg chapter in Iowa sponsors a chili supper before the football game against a rival high school. The schools cooks volunteer their time to prepare the chili. Dessert pies are provided by service organizations. Strategies to publicize the event (and the chapter) include inserts in grocery store bags, flyers sent home with all elementary students, announcements, and posters around both Parkersburg and rival towns. CSF of Altmar-Parish-Williamstown in New York raised funds from the sale of desserts in conjunction with a school concert. The Scholarships for Scholars chapter holds an annual dinner which raises in excess of $10,000. Corporate sponsors help support the program and scholarship recipients entertain with music, drama, or a speech. Over 60 leaders from business and social service circles in a Latino community in Providence, Rhode Island, attended a cocktail party on the deck of a local Dominican restaurant. The results were large funds and publicity for the new Latino Dollars for Scholars of Rhode Island chapter.
23. Haunted House

CSF of Lanesboro/New Ashford in Massachusetts convinced the management at a local mall to let them create a Haunted House in a vacant store. The chapter cleared over $8,000 on the event, with virtually no overhead.
24. Music and Entertainment

A chapter in New York receives a contribution from the sale of a CD of holiday music made by the school music department. Selections are included from the elementary band, junior and senior high bands and choruses, and the jazz band. Queensbury Dollars for Scholars in New York held a Spring Jazz Cruise on Lake George aboard the Lac du Saint Sacrement. The $20 ticket price included a buffet dinner and door prizes. Entertainment was provided by a jazz trio and the QHS Jazz Band. Sometimes all you have to do is ask. The local school superintendent involved with McLeod County East Dollars for Scholars in Minnesota asked former town resident and popular country western singer Paulette Carlson to perform a benefit concert for the local chapter. Carlson not only agreed but has since signed on to do similar benefits for more than a dozen other chapters.
25. Sponsored Runs

Honoring a well-respected, retired, or deceased community member with an annual event can generate community spirit as well as scholarship funds. Each year the Don Smith Memorial Scholarship Fund in New Jersey sponsors a run in memory of Smith, a former educator and fire chief. With the help of sponsored runners and a business ad book, the group has raised as much as $5,000 from the event.
26. Toll Booth Collections

During their annual Dollars for Scholars Week, the CSF of Pittsfield chapter in Massachusetts raises money for scholarships through voluntary toll booth collections on a summer weekend. Thirty students from three high schools spend one day in caps and gowns soliciting money from drivers at major intersections and toll gates. Advance newspaper and radio publicity is important as it prepares the drivers for this fundraiser.
June 2011
4-9
Fundraising 27. Tour of Homes

The CSF of Newton chapter in Iowa holds an annual Christmas Tour of Homes with each home featuring a unique theme and creative decorating. Local merchants help by providing refreshments, decorations, and advertising. Chapter volunteers talk with visitors about Dollars for Scholars and the importance of raising money for scholarships.
28. Walkathon
Nearly 100 employees from three companies stepped out into the sun during lunch hour on a summer day to walk and raise funds for Brockton Dollars for Scholars in Massachusetts. The walkathon raised awareness and commitment to the chapter as well as dollars.
29. Endowment Building Campaign: P-547 Club

In a town of just over 900 people, a large endowment fund that could provide scholarships to the students of Parkers Prairie, Minnesota, for years to come, was one mans dream. Today, the P-547 Club of the Parkers Prairie School District 547 chapter has well over $500,000 in endowment funds because of that big dream and the communitys commitment. Alumni and other concerned citizens are asked to giver $547 (at one time or over 5 years), and they do. Heres why the chapters efforts have been successful, according to chapter officials: People like giving to an endowed fund because it promises ongoing support for the students. A quality two-color brochure states the purpose and goals of the organization and benefits of supporting the organization. The brochure includes a response form, making it easy for people to respond and for volunteers to ask for a response. $547 is an amount affordable by most people when spread over three to five years. Memberships of $500 or more build an endowment quickly. Donors would give less if this high minimum amount were not set. An amount of $500 gives donors a feeling of ownership in a worthwhile community project. Larger categories encourage donors to contribute even more. Donors of $5,000 or more have scholarships given in their name. Donations can be used as memorials or to honor an individual. A wall plaque listing members displayed at the school and elsewhere in the community encourages memberships. People like to be recognized. The annual newsletter keeps members informed of the progress of the organization and is a good tool for enlisting members. The organization provides a vehicle for people who wish to leave larger amounts of money in their home community. The key to success is members enlisting other members. People give to people when they are promoting a worthwhile project. Chapter volunteers are rewarded with a feeling of accomplishment in helping provide scholarships for students for years to come.
30. May Day Plunge

A Dollars for Scholars chapter in Nebraska hosts a pledge drive by High School students, teachers, administration, local businessmen, TV personnel, mayor, sheriff, etc. Jumpers plunge into the Platte River on May 1st to raise money at this annual event.
June 2011
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Awards
Giving Awards
Selecting the students who receive scholarships is one of the most exciting and rewarding activities of a Dollars for Scholars chapter. It is also a serious responsibility. The Awards Committee must make sure that the process is handled in a fair, efficient, and confidential manner. Take time to study this section of the Chapter Guidebook. It will be time well spent! The suggested application form and process can be adjusted by your chapter. Most chapters use this format the first year and alter as needed in subsequent years. For example, some chapters believe an essay is important and add the item to their process. Others believe that being accepted to (and staying in) a college is sufficient evidence of a students merit.
Getting Started
The key questions to consider as you begin your chapter awards process include: What is the goal for total dollars to award? What is the goal for minimum/maximum award size? Does the chapter want to give something to every applicant? Or does the chapter plan to have some students who will be denied a scholarship? If the chapter wants to give something to every applicant, it should plan to vary the size of the awards according to points scored on the application. Will awards be based on merit, financial need, or both? Will awards be issued during the first or second semester of postsecondary education? Will any awards be automatically renewable? May returning college students reapply in subsequent years? Will the chapter allow one-time-only recipients to spread out their awards over more than one year? Will the chapter allow recipients to defer their award to a subsequent year? What categories of students can apply (e.g., current seniors, enrolled postsecondary students, home-schooled students, open-enrollment students, graduate or professional degree students, non-traditional adult students returning to postsecondary education)? How will applications be distributed, collected, and prepared for the Awards Committee? What will be the deadline dates for application submission and for selection? What will be the deadline for required forms to be submitted by the student (i.e. transcript, proof of enrollment, scholarship acknowledgement form, etc.)? What type of awards/recognition process will be used?
Answering these questions provides the chapter with the information needed to draft its Awards Policy. This policy makes it possible to explain how the chapters awards process functions and reduces claims of bias or unfairness that could be raised later if no awards policy is in place. Changes can be made as a chapter evolves by vote of the board of directors. Any changes to the awards policy must be made prior to distribution of scholarship applications or the date of the scholarship season opening. A sample awards policy appears on page 5-9 of this section.
October 2011
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Awards 1. Getting Organized

Prepare a scholarship timeline for the year (see sample in the Sample Documents section) and assign specific responsibilities and deadlines. To ensure objectivity, some chapters exchange applications with a neighboring chapter and score each others applications. Most invite community members who do not have children near the age of the senior class to serve on the scoring committee. Others use a numbering system that replaces any personal identification. The volunteer that assigns the ID numbers should not serve on the selection committee or otherwise score the applications. Some chapters use the national Dollars for Scholars scoring service for a fee per application. This removes any possibility of someone on the committee knowing who the student might be (even when the applications are kept anonymous, in small communities people often know which student is doing what). For more information, complete the Chapter Services Agreement found on the Chapter Portal or contact the national Dollars for Scholars office at 800/248-8080.
2. Determine How Awards will be Based: Need, Merit, or a Combination

Need-based scholarships are those awarded to students who can prove financial need. In most cases, these students would report their family financial status on the Suggested Parent Contribution Questionnaire (SPCQ) form (pg 5-26) and the committee will determine who is eligible for an award based on the need of the family. In order to have a better idea of need, it is helpful to know the cost of the institution the applicant is planning to attend and also what, if any, financial aid the student expects to receive from their institution or other outside scholarship providers. A low or high Suggested Parent Contribution figure does not provide context within which to assess need; it only tells what the family can afford to contribute to the students cost of education. Merit-based scholarships are those awarded to students for specific criteria determined by the chapter, but there is no need to prove financial need according to government FAFSA standards. For example, scholarships can be provided for those meeting criteria established in academics, athletics, music, theater, or debate, for example. It is also possible to offer scholarships for students who attended a specified elementary school because a donor has provided the funds to do so. This is commonly done when a long-time teacher or administrator retires and funds are donated to establish a special award in their name. This type of award may not be needbased unless a chapter has previously decided to award scholarships based only on financial need and then to accommodate preferences only when need eligibility has been established. Chapters may also decide to award scholarships to as many students with postsecondary plans as possible within the dollars raised budget. In this case, the chapter has a goal to provide their message of support to as many students as possible and again, awards are not need-based. In this instance, we recommend that the chapter use some method of scoring applicants so that the amounts vary even if every applicant will receive something. This way, the chapter can ensure that the award will not be construed as an education benefit rather than a scholarship. By definition, scholarships should have an element of competition.
What is the best way to award need-based scholarships?

Use the Suggested Parent Contribution Questionnaire (SPCQ) form (pg 5-26) to determine financial need and award scholarships accordingly. The SPCQ closely mirrors the FAFSA questions required to determine federal financial assistance. A chapter may score these forms using the tables and scoring form on pages 5-23 to 5-25 or they can arrange with the national Dollars for Scholars office to score them for a fee.
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Awards Is there any way to award need-based scholarships without having the committee know every familys income?
This is especially difficult in smaller communities. One way to avoid this problem is to have Scholarship America process the FAQs. By having applicants send their financial information to Scholarship America, they will feel less vulnerable to local eyes seeing their personal information. Other chapters use First Generation Scholarships as an alternative if they live in a community with significant numbers of first generation students who are graduating from high school with postsecondary aspirations. A chapter may choose to be more creative in the categories used to award scholarships that will imply need-based eligibility. For example, it is most likely that a first-generation college student will come from a family that is not going to be disqualified from need-based awards. Therefore, providing awards to any first-generation college student is another reasonable alternative to assuring there is financial need.
3. Prepare, Distribute, and Collect Application Forms

To obtain application forms, you can: Download a copy of the standard application form on the Dollars for Scholars Chapter Portal Make copies from the sample in the Sample Documents section of the Chapter Guidebook, or Design and print your own based on selected criteria in the national sample or on your own criteria.
4. Nontraditional Students
If you decide to use financial need information and provide awards to nontraditional students (returning adults or graduate/professional-degree students), have applicants provide financial information for themselves (and spouse) rather than their parents information. The adult application is found in the Sample Documents section.
5. Financial Distribution Options

Each chapter may also determine how they wish to distribute dollars available. For example, if a chapter has $20,000 available for scholarships, they may do one or a combination of the following, depending on the local community culture and chapter policy. Group the scores of students into clusters according to point values on the scoring process and provide awards according to the clusters of scores. This allows students with similar scores to receive similar awards (for example, 10 scholarships at $1,000, 10 scholarships at $700, and 6 scholarships at $500). Provide a set amount to all recipients, such as $1,000 to 20 students. All scholarships are merit-based, which means financial need is not considered. Half of the scholarships available are need-based and half are merit-based. For example, $10,000 is available to students with financial need and $10,000 is available to students who do not demonstrate need. Designate scholarships for 6 technical/vocational programs and 13 for college and university programs. Dollars available to each category are distributed based on differences in total program costs/time (1 to 2 year and 4 year)) and percent of students entering into each category locally. Technical/vocational programs receive $750 scholarships and college/university students receive $1,500 scholarships. Adjust either the dollar amounts or number of awards as dollars/applicants allow. Designate 25% of funds for renewable scholarships. This provides $15,000 to graduates and $5,000 to past recipients. Policies are put in place for minimum GPA/other criteria needed to receive renewable funds and past recipients reapply for these dollars. The $15,000 available for graduates provides $1,000 to 15 students. Determine financial need and use your available scholarship dollars to meet a set percentage of the calculated need, such as 10%. For example, for each applicant take the cost of attendance at the school of choice and subtract the Suggested Parent Contribution (SPC). If the chapter has $20,000 to award, they can assign the available funds according to the greatest need.
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Awards 6. Application Process

Post your application online or use ChapterNet, Dollars for Scholars online application platform. Distribute the applications to local high schools, churches, community centers, library, town hall, and other appropriate points about two months before the deadline. Work with the publicity committee to publicize their availability. Most chapters form a close relationship with the school counselors and use the existing system to distribute and collect applications within their time frame. Most chapters distribute applications in January or February and collect and score them in March or April. Awards are usually finalized in May or early June and announced on or near graduation. Have the applications returned to a central place. School counselors or guidance office staff may be willing to assist. Otherwise have a member of the chapter (not on the Awards Committee) collect and process the applications. Assign an ID number to each application. Separate the page with the students name from the rest of the application to ensure an objective system. Keep a separate list of the ID numbers with their respective student names. The point person must retain confidentiality and should not be involved in the actual scoring.
7. Scoring the Applications

Keep it simple. Scholarship Americas selection process (with minor modifications) has been used successfully by chapters throughout the country for over 50 years. Scoring is determined by a point system that rewards the well-rounded student for academic achievement, work experience, school and community involvement, aspirations and goals, and unusual circumstances. The points are based on information gathered from the Student Application, an official transcript of grades, and an Applicant Appraisal completed by an advisor, counselor, or supervisor who knows the student well. If a chapter decides to include financial need criteria, the students financial need is determined from the Suggested Parent Contribution Questionnaire (SPCQ) filled out by the students parent(s). A detailed guide to the selection process is included in this section of the Chapter Guidebook. The scoring process is really quite simple. The forms and tables on the following pages make it easy to score the applications in a fair, objective, and non-discriminatory manner. Each chapter is free to modify the suggested 240-point system to fit its chapters preferences assigning more points for volunteer commitment, for example, and fewer for national test scores. After assigning ID numbers, all applications are passed on to the Awards Committee chairperson and scoring begins. When scoring, assign one or more committee members to each section of the application, allowing each member to become the expert for that section. The committee then works as an assembly line to score the applications. This also makes it unlikely for anyone to recognize the applicant. Anonymous scoring is important. Follow procedures provided to tally your students scores. Assign scholarships according to scores and other criteria established by your chapter. The last step is tallying final scores and determining scholarship assignments. The Awards Committee prepares a final list and compiles materials and letters for the awards program. Be sure to spell out any requirements the recipients must meet before their award checks are issued (e.g. submitting the Scholarship Acknowledgement Form).
8. Announcing the Awards

Determine whether you will notify recipients prior to your awards program or at the program itself. Decide what information you want from your recipients before you will issue award checks. Decide what due dates for that information best meets your chapters needs. Decide if you want the recipient to notify their institution of the expected chapter award, or if you want the chapter to work with the institution directly. If you want the recipient to notify the school, provide precise, clear instructions on whom to notify, when to notify, and what information the recipient should provide. The simplest thing is to tell recipients to provide the financial aid office with a copy of their congratulations letter since it has all the key data (see bullet below) immediately after receiving it. If your chapter prefers to deal directly with the institutions, we recommend that you deal with the Financial Aid Office rather than the Bursars office. That way, you can be sure the award is handled properly, particularly if the institution is a Collegiate Partner or a Matching Collegiate Partner.
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Decide what you want your letters to recipients notifying them of their award to say. Be sure to include how much their total award will be and how that award will be issued (e.g., in one check in June, in two installments in June and December, in one check on January 15, etc.). We recommend that you include with your congratulations letter, the Scholarship Acknowledgment Form to complete and return with a clearly specified due date. Be sure to include information about what the chapter will do if the recipient doesnt meet the due date. We recommend that the due date be no later than July 15th. Most students know where they will be going by then regardless of when the chapter actually issues the award check. Having that information by then helps reduce the flurry of reminders and other time consuming follow up with students who are no longer easy to reach. Decide what enrollment documentation your chapter wants to see before any award checks are issued. State those requirements clearly and what the consequences will be if the documentation isnt received by the due date. Decide what you want your letters to non-recipients to say. It is important to let them know the status of their application, usually at the same time you are notifying your recipients. Be sure to include information about re-applying in subsequent years if your chapter supports returning college students. See sample letters in the Sample Documents section. If possible, plan an awards ceremony. Most chapters hold such ceremonies close to graduation. A special program brings recognition to the students, their parents, sponsors of scholarships, and the chapter. Many chapters cooperate with other school awards programs. Invite a representative from each organization, business, or family that donated a scholarship to present their award to the selected student; that way, your awards ceremony is also an impressive donor-recognition event. Take photos and be sure to note the correct names and spelling for each person pictured in a photo. Work with the Publicity Committee to arrange for publicity about the awards using the photos taken at the ceremony.
9. Acknowledging and Processing the Awards

Students return the Scholarship Acknowledgment Form listing their school of choice. If an institution is a Matching Collegiate Partner, send the Matching Award Request Form to the identified matching partner contact (refer to the Collegiate Partner Directory matching schools are highlighted in blue), as soon as possible. Many matching Collegiate Partners have a matching budget ceiling and match awards as the forms arrive until their budget ceiling is reached. (See form in the Sample Documents section) Be sure to notify your recipients if they are attending a Matching Collegiate Partner. Tell them that their award may be matched, that the chapter has already notified the institution of the initial award, and that they should contact the financial aid office for additional information. Particularly for schools that are not Collegiate Partners, enclose a separate letter with the recipients congratulations letters that is intended for the Financial Aid Office. That letter can notify the school of the award and state clearly that if the school can not use the award to reduce unmet need or self-help (loans/work-study), then the institution should return the scholarship check to the chapter (be sure to provide contact information for the chapter). (See letters in the Sample Documents section) Write checks to the institution only. The national Dollars for Scholars office requires that chapters make award checks payable to the institution only with the students name in the memo line. All chapters are required to have the phrase Dollars for Scholars displayed on their correspondence to the school or on the award check to clearly identify them as part of the Scholarship America/Dollars for Scholars network. This will ensure that Collegiate Partners recognize the chapter awards and handle them in the appropriate manner. These changes should make it easier for the chapter in preparing the award checks and for the Collegiate Partner school in processing the award checks. The policy is required for all award checks going to a Collegiate Partner institution (both matching and non-matching) in order ensure the full benefit of the Collegiate Partners program. There are several important and practical benefits to the student and the chapter for making scholarship checks payable directly to the school: School Bursars and Financial Aid Directors are expected to handle and must account for funds from many sources for many students. If your student does not enroll for some reason, the school will refund the chapters award. 5-5
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Students sometimes use the scholarship for purposes other than those intended by the scholarship program (car payments, spring breaks, etc). In these cases, the scholarship should be acknowledged as taxable income to the student. Students may decide at the last minute not to enroll in school, but neglect to inform the chapter, or have difficulty returning the award to the chapter if the check has already been spent. Chapters may indicate to the school in advance how they expect their award to be used. If a student has received any federal or state financial aid (loans, work study, or grants), the government typically requires that students report all private outside aid that they receive. If students do not report outside scholarships, they are not following governmental and institutional policies and may risk losing their entire financial aid package. Collegiate Partner institutions have agreed not to displace institutional scholarship dollars in accommodating chapter dollars up to $2,500 or more in a students award package. They are committed to working with chapters and students to provide the student with the best package and least loan debt. Mail the award checks. Some chapters send the check to the student directly and have them submit it to the financial aid office. Other chapters send the checks directly to the financial aid office. Dollars for Scholars recommends that if your chapter wishes to send them directly to the schools, do not send them to the Bursars (business) office, instead, work only with the financial aid office.
10. Keeping Records and Follow Up

Complete the Scholarship Recipient Record (see the Sample Documents section) to keep track of the student and their award, institution, address changes, and other pertinent facts. Use this information to complete the Recipient List Report form. The Recipient List form is due to the Scholarship America/ Dollars for Scholars office by June 30 of the award year. The Recipient List form is available on the Chapter Portal in an Excel version. In time, you will likely want to use this information to keep in touch with your recipients. Remember, a chapters most promising future donors and volunteers are those who have been helped in the past!
11. Evaluate
Ask the Awards Committee chair to lead a review of the awards policies and procedures annually. Examine the awards process for the past year. Submit a report for the next year to the chapter board, by putting the evaluation in writing and keeping it in the awards file. What worked well? What could be improved?
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What Schools Do With Your Scholarship Dollars

Another important consideration in making awards is understanding what will happen to the chapter scholarship money once it is awarded. The money is not used to offset the Suggested Parent Contribution (SPC amount from the FAFSA report) for the students education. By law, postsecondary institutions must use outside scholarship funds, such as chapter scholarships, either to replace some portion of the students financial aid package (consisting of student loan, work study, and institutional grant) or to meet any of the students financial need not covered by the financial aid package (unmet need). It is most desirable for the school to use the chapter scholarship to meet any unmet need first. If no unmet need exists, the best use of a chapter scholarship is to reduce the self-help (loan or work study) portion of the financial aid package. If the school uses the chapter scholarship to replace or reduce the institutional grant, the student selected loses the grant or free money and receives no direct benefit from the chapter scholarship. Therefore, it is important to communicate with the institution about how your chapter expects the school to use the funds. (See sample letters in the Sample Documents section) You may decide not to make an award initially if you are aware that the school chosen by the student will only use the chapter awards to replace or reduce the institutional grants. Your chapter may also consider holding a students award for the next semester/year to assist them with balancing their financial aid package. Notify all institutions of the awards as early as possible to help ensure their full cooperation. Remember, Collegiate Partners will work with you to give maximum benefit to the student from a Dollars for Scholars award. For more detailed information about how chapter awards might impact a recipients financial aid package, check out the current copy of The College Report. The College Report is a comprehensive booklet that spells out the individual policies toward private scholarships for more than 750 institutions around the country. The specific information in The College Report is provided by the financial aid staff of each listed school. The information is compiled yearly and placed on the Chapter Portal for chapters to use as a resource.
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Establishing an Awards Policy

Each chapter can establish its own awards policy. Some points to consider are listed below. A Sample Awards Policy follows.
Basic Decisions for the Dollars for Scholars Award Process 1. Size and number of awards available
Minimum/maximum amounts (example: $1,000 to $5,000) Same size award for all recipients/varied size awards based on points received
2. Designated awards for two categories vs. one category

College and technical/professional community college All postsecondary programs
3. When to distribute the awards

Fall semester (need information from students by ___________) Spring semester (need information from students by __________) Can students defer their awards for their sophomore, etc. year what is that process
4. Required Documentation
Due date of all required documentation from the student (i.e. Scholarship Acknowledgement Form, transcripts, proof of enrollment, etc.) List consequences of missed due dates
5. Renewable options 6. Categories of recipients

Current graduates Local high school graduates Home-schooled students Open-enrollment students Private high school graduates Currently enrolled in postsecondary programs Adult students Postsecondary Option students
7. Criteria for awards

Merit vs. financial need Which parts of the application to use/create own
8. Scoring system and process for selection 9. Awards notification process 10. Ceremony: Publicity and Appreciation
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Chapter Awards Policy

Anytown Dollars for Scholars Awards Policy Effective Date: xx/xx/xx
SAMPLE
1. Application for [chapter name] Dollars for Scholars awards will be available in the high school guidance office as of [date] and are due back to the guidance office on [date]. Students will use the application form adapted from the national Dollars for Scholars samples and approved by the board of directors at the March meeting (personal data/academic performance, extra-curricular activities, work experience, community service, unusual circumstances, need, and teacher reference). All award selections are based exclusively on merit (or need or a ranked combination of need and merit). The awards will be open to any graduate of the class of 20xx, regardless of the type of postsecondary education program they will attend as long as the school is accredited. 2. The Awards Committee will score all applications as directed by the Awards Committee chair, using the point system outlined by the national Dollars for Scholars office. Three individuals from the board of directors will serve on the Awards Committee, and two others outside the board will be invited by the Awards Committee chair to assist in the awards process. 3. All gifts to Dollars for Scholars of $500 or more (amount determined by chapter) may become a named scholarship. The award will carry the name of the donor or of the individual/organization designated by the donor, unless the donor specifies it as an anonymous donation (e.g., the Jane Smith Scholarship, Lions Club Scholarship, etc.). Gifts may result in annual awards or one-time awards as designated by the donor. 4. Sponsors will have the opportunity to present their award if they so choose. Arrangements will be made by the Awards Committee chair. If they do not choose to present their award, sponsors will be notified of the name of their award recipient by letter or by copy of the letter sent to the recipient. 5. [Chapter name] Dollars for Scholars minimum award will be $500 and a maximum of $1,500 (range determined by chapter). If a specific donor or endowed fund is able to provide more scholarship dollars, multiple recipients and/or renewable awards will be discussed as an option with the donor. The chapter will remain open to larger size awards upon request of the donor. Seventy-five percent of funds available will be directed to students attending four-year institutions and the other twenty-five percent to two-year vocational/technical students, reflecting the attendance trend in our community (allocations to be determined by chapter). 6. Awards will be presented to recipients (i.e. at the May Awards Night). Students will receive a check made to their institution of choice upon completion of the Scholarship Acknowledgement Form (SAF). SAF must be submitted by July 15 of the current calendar year. A recipient award letter indicating who to thank will be sent to each recipient along with a copy of the SAF and a return envelope. (See sample letter in the Sample Documents section) 7. Letters will be sent to any non-recipients thanking them for making application to Dollars for Scholars. Records of all applicants and recipients will be kept in a permanent file and used to submit the Recipient List for Scholarship America. (Form provided in the Sample Documents section updated version is available yearly on the Chapter Portal in Word or Excel options) 8. The chapter will send letters of appreciation to donors for gifts to [chapter name] Dollars for Scholars. The Publicity Committee chair will provide newspaper, newsletter, radio and/or other publicity materials as deemed appropriate by the chapter. 9. Any student postponing postsecondary attendance due to personal circumstances or military service may have up to four (4) years to use their award, IF the student properly notifies the chapter by the deadline for submitting the SAF. If notice is not given, the request will be handled at the discretion of the board. If funds are not used within 4 years, they will be given to another student. Awards may also be held to accommodate adjustments to the Financial Aid package, if the chapter is properly notified (OR a chapter may determine that any high school graduate may apply whenever they matriculate and awards will be available for the first year only of postsecondary education).
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Chapter Awards List

Anytown Dollars for Scholars Chapter Awards List
SAMPLE
20XX Unrestricted Awards*

Anytown Dollars for Scholars will distribute $12,500 in unrestricted scholarship awards this year. Unrestricted means that all high school seniors from Anytown High School who apply will be eligible to compete for these awards. Scholarships will range from $500 to $1,000. Name of Award Phonathon Scholarship Denim Days Scholarship Dollars for Scholars Scholarship Smith Family Memorial Anytown Dollars for Scholars Amount (# available) $500 (4) $750 (2) $1,000 (5) $1,000 (1) $1,000 (1) Restrictions None None None None None
20XX Restricted Awards*

The following restricted awards are also available. These are awards designated by the donor for students who meet the specific criteria. Name of Award Knutson Memorial Scholarship Anytown Teacher Assoc. Scholarship First National Bank Scholarship Car Care Dealers, Inc. * Amount (# available) $500 (1) $500 (1) $500 (1) $500 (1) Restrictions Band members Education major Business career Vocational/technical student: Automotive related
Each chapter should have a record of restricted and unrestricted awards available. This helps the Awards Committee to make selections and to review the annual growth.
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Additional Scholarships Available

1. Open Scholarships
Scholarship America, parent company of Dollars for Scholars, manages hundreds of corporate-based scholarship funds each year. Several of these accounts are designated as open scholarships and any student may apply for them. Open scholarships can be reviewed on the Scholarship America web site. Go to www.scholarshipamerica.org, click on the tab: Students & Parents, then click on Open Scholarships under the For Students column. Scholarship America established the CVSA program in 1991. The program recognizes and rewards volunteerism as a measure of student achievement and as a constructive part of the relationship between student citizens and their communities. CVSA awards are available only to chapters in Active standing. Students are eligible to apply if they are enrolled or planning to enroll full-time at an accredited two- or fouryear college, university, or vocational/technical school and are entering or working in an undergraduate program of study. Adult students entering or resuming a postsecondary undergraduate program of study are also eligible, as are past recipients of the CVSA award. Full-time study is defined as full-term enrollment for the entire upcoming academic year. Applicants are evaluated on their level of volunteer community service over the past four (4) years. Recipients are selected by the level of volunteer service and the degree of its impact on the applicants life, as well as the students academic achievement, work experience, school activities, and a statement of goals. The top 20 CVSA recipients will be further evaluated and the Student of the Year will be selected from among them to receive additional scholarship funds/awards.
2. Community Volunteer Service Awards (CVSA)
Additional Planning and Tracking Tools

Chapters are encouraged to develop and annually review their deadlines and overall awards policy. It is also important to track student recipients. A sample chapter awards timeline and recipient record form is available in the Sample Documents section.
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Scoring the Application

The following pages provide the point system guide for use with the national Dollars for Scholars application. Chapters may make adjustments to fit their local needs. A sample of the suggested national Dollars for Scholars application is found in the Sample Documents section and is also available on the Chapter Portal.
Evaluating Merit-Based Awards

Student application sections Personal Data Work Experience (20) Activities and Leadership Contributions (30) Educational/Career Objectives (20) Unusual Circumstances (10) An evaluation by someone who knows the student well Students converted rank in class or grade point average SAT Total score and/or ACT composite score (National Standardized Tests) 80
Applicant Appraisal Scholastic Performance Scholastic Aptitude*
40 80 40 _____
Maximum Possible Merit Points
240
Use the Scholarship America Points Worksheet (pg. 5-28) to record the scores for each applicant. Adjust headings if your chapter adapts the application. The guidelines on the following pages are detailed and cover a wide range of student experiences and circumstances. However, not every students situation will conform to the point system. In those cases, use good common sense as your guide stay consistent in your determination of point values. * Review About Standardized Tests on pg. 5-19 to make changes in the applicant scoring process if you do not wish to include standardized test scores.
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Awards Personal Data: Scoring Work Experience

Total Possible Score: 20 points Refer to page 3 of the student application. NOTE: Score only work experience from the past four (4) years. Part-time (5 hours or more per week) 1-4 months 5-8 months 9-12 months 1-4 months 5-8 months 9-12 months = 2 points = 4 points = 6 points = 4 points = 8 points = 12 points
Full-time (32 hours or more per week)
Part-time/Irregular Hours (4 hours or less per week or no specific hours per week given) 1-4 months = 1 point 5-8 months = 2 points 9-12 months = 3 points Additional Notes: Divide the number of points in half if less than one month 2 points maximum per year if no specific hours and months are given 5 points per year worked on a farm or in a farm-owned business more points if applicant is more specific about number of hours and duties 20 points maximum for non-traditional students who state they are full-time parents (5 points / year) Use an average if a range of hours is given (e.g. 15-35 hours = 25 hours)
Personal Data: Scoring School and Community Activities

Total Possible Score: 30 points Refer to page 3 of the student application. NOTE: Begin counting four (4) years back from the year of application. When scoring awards and honors, give points for those that single out only a few students for special recognition. Do not give credit for academic awards or honors. Academic-related points are provided in the Academic Section of the process. 1 point per activity, per year 1 point per office held in an organization or captain of athletic team, per year 1 point per honor or award, per year 1 point per sample of talent enclosed (e.g., art, photos) IF you allow this option
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Awards Personal Data: Scoring Goals and Aspirations

Total Possible Score: 20 points Refer to page 3 of the student application. NOTE: This section gives credit to students for planning their education and career in a thorough and logical manner. Look for a progression of activities or steps into the future. The more steps planned, the more points. Give more weight to clear, concise, and complete statements of goals than to general philosophical statements. Picture the applicant moving from one level or period of time to the next: Example: B.A. to M.A. to career to another career and/or back to school
Look for any added significant information: Examples: Evidence of active participation in future goals; unique information about specific goals 4 points 1 step answer that is vague in nature Examples: I plan to be an accountant or I want to be a success 8 points 2 step answer Examples: I plan to be an accountant and later work in my fathers firm or I plan to major in biology and do medical research 12 points 3 step answer Example: I plan to major in accounting, earn a CPA after graduation, and work in my fathers firm.
16 points 4 step answer Example: I plan to major in accounting, earn a CPA after graduation, and work in my fathers firm for several years. Once experienced, I plan to start my own firm in California.
20 points 5 step answer Example: I plan to major in accounting, earn a CPA after graduation, and work in my fathers firm for several years. Once experienced, I plan to start my own firm in California where I will capitalize on computer technology by offering accounting software to my clients.
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Awards Personal Data: Scoring Unusual Family or Personal Circumstances

Total Possible Score: 10 points Refer to page 3 of the student application. NOTE: Some students have to overcome adverse personal circumstances that make pursuing educational life goals extra challenging. The intent of this section is to compensate for points that may have been lost in other areas of the application because of these extra challenges. Points Illness 1-2 4-6 Disability 4-6 4 Major Tragedies 2-6 Illness of family member or self (including sibling with mental disability) Chronic medical condition of self (epilepsy, diabetes) or serious or life threatening illness of family member, self, friend (alcoholism, cancer, AIDS, MS, other) Physical disability (blind, deaf, confined to wheel chair) Learning disability (dyslexia) Recent tragedy (within 4-6 years assault, kidnapping, death of loved one, other) Description of Circumstance
Divorce / Family Issues 2 Divorce mentioned 4 Recent divorce (within past 4 years) 2 Single parent family 1-2 Problems with blended family Other Circumstances 1 Family moved frequently (1 point for each move, within past 4 years) 2-4 Recent immigrant by choice (within past 4-6 years) 2 Immigrant (over 6 years ago) 4-6 Recent refugee (within past 4-6 years) 2-4 Refugee (over 6 years ago) 2-4 Nontraditional student with a family to support 2-4 Single teen parent 2-4 Parent out of work (year or more) 2-4 Major adverse financial circumstances in family (loss of family business, bankruptcy) Additional Points 1-2 1-2 Explanation of how circumstances adversely affected student Explanation by student regarding how he or she overcame adversity
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Awards Applicant Appraisal

Total Possible Points: 40 points (plus 1-2 for additional comments) Refer to page 4 of the student application. 5 points for each first choice: extremely well, excellent 4 points for each second choice: very well, good 2 point for each third choice: moderately, well, fair 1 points for each fourth choice: not well, poor Give 1-2 additional points for appraisers comments.
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Awards Scholastic Performance: Rank in Class (RIC) OR Grade Point Average (GPA)
Total Possible Points: 80 points
Option 1
Use the following formula to arrive at the calculation for each student. ((Rank In Class X 2) 1) (Class Size X 2) = CALC (Calculation) If CALC is less than or equal to: .0016 .0022 .0030 .0040 .0054 .0071 .0094 .0122 .0158 .0202 .0256 .0322 .0401 .0495 .0606 .0735 .0885 .1056 .1251 .1469 .1711 .1977 .2266 .2578 .2912 .3264 .3632 .4013 .4404 .4801 .5198 Points Are: 80 79 78 77 76 75 74 73 72 71 70 69 68 67 66 65 64 63 62 61 60 59 58 57 56 55 54 53 52 51 50 If CALC is less than or equal to: .5595 .5986 .6367 .6735 .7087 .7421 .7733 .8022 .8288 .8530 .8748 .8943 .9114 .9264 .9393 .9504 .9598 .9677 .9743 .9797 .9841 .9877 .9905 .9928 .9945 .9959 .9969 .9977 .9983 1.000 Points Are: 49 48 47 46 45 44 43 42 41 40 39 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20
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Awards Option 2
If Rank in Class (RIC) is not available or there is a small class size, this will distort the outcome. You may wish to convert Grade Point Average (GPA) to points as shown in Table 1 below.
Table 1 Conversion of GPA to Points

Grade Point Average GPA (4 Point Scale) 3.89 4.00 3.77 3.88 3.65 3.76 3.53 3.64 3.41 3.52 3.29 3.40 3.17 3.28 3.05 3.16 2.93 3.04 2.81 2.92 2.69 2.80 2.57 2.68 2.45 2.56 2.33 2.44 2.21 2.32 2.09 2.20 1.97 2.08 1.85 1.96 1.73 1.84 1.60 1.72 1.49 1.59 1.37 1.48 1.25 1.36 1.13 1.24 1.12 and below Scholarship America Points for GPA 80 is highest 78 75 73 70 68 65 63 60 58 55 53 50 48 45 43 40 38 35 33 30 28 25 23 20 Scholarship America Points for Test Scores 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6
To convert grade point averages not on a 4.0 scale, divide the GPA by the highest possible score the student could have gotten, then multiply by 4.
GPA x4 Highest Score

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5-18
x 4 = 3.24 (on a 4.0 scale)
Awards Scholastic Aptitude: Test Scores

Look on the transcript for SAT and/or ACT scores. Use Table 2 (pg. 5-20) to convert test scores to points. When more than one test score is provided, use the one that results in the highest points. When national test scores or rank in class is not provided on the transcript, convert the students grade point average (GPA) to rank in class or test score equivalent. Use Table 1 (pg. 5-18) to assign points. About Standardized Tests: Note: The chief purpose of the SAT, ACT, and other standardized tests is to compare students from dissimilar education systems for example, two students with 3.5 GPAs, one from a large metropolitan high school and one from a small rural high school. Advocates for standardized testing claim that the test results help distinguish such students and also provide an accurate predictor of student performance in college. Recent studies have raised serious questions about the impartiality of these tests, suggesting that family income, race, and gender may have an inordinate effect on the test performance. Other studies have suggested that scores may predict college performance for only 40 percent of test takers. Should your chapter consider standardized test scores? Ask yourself these questions: Do you need to compare students from dissimilar school systems? Will these tests help you to do so equitably? If your applicants come from more than one high school and have relatively similar incomes, the answer may be yes. On the other hand, chapters serving economically and racially diverse communities and chapters serving just one high school may legitimately question the benefit of considering test performance. If you choose not to consider standardized testing, simply make 200 points the maximum score for all applicants, rather than 240 points, and disregard the Test Score column of the Scholarship America Points Worksheet (pg. 5-28).
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Table 2 Conversion of Test Scores

ACT Composite 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 1 11 SAT Total 2400 2360 2399 2300 2359 2220 2299 2140 2219 2070 2139 2010 2069 1950 2009 1890 1949 1830 1889 1770 1829 1710 1769 1650 1709 1600 1649 1550 1599 1500 1549 1440 1499 1380 1439 1320 1379 1250 1319 1180 1249 1100 1179 1020 1099 930 1019 830 929 1 829 Scholastic Aptitude Merit Points 40 40 38 36 36 34 32 30 30 28 26 26 24 22 20 20 18 16 16 14 12 10 10 8 6 6
SAT Total is the sum of the Critical Reading, Writing, and Math scores. You must have all three scores to use SAT to determine Scholastic Aptitude merit points. If student provides both ACT and SAT scores, then use score that will provide the most merit points. EX: ACT Composite score = 28 (30 pts) SAT Total Score = 1750 (26 pts)
Merit Points = 30
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Evaluating Need-Based Awards

If your chapter offers need-based awards, the following information needs to be requested and assessed to determine need as defined by federal guidelines. If you are interested in offering awards based on need, but your chapter is not interested in accessing personal income information from families, Scholarship America/Dollars for Scholars will score the Suggested Parent Contribution Questionnaires (SPCQ) for you for a nominal feel. Call 800/248-8080 or complete and submit the Chapter Services Agreement located on the Chapter Portal.
Using the Suggested Parent Contribution Questionnaire (SPCQ):

The SPCQ has been designed by Scholarship America to serve students applying for aid from local Dollars for Scholars chapters and other programs of Scholarship America. Both the entire income and the liquid assets of the parents are considered. The SPCQ formula is similar to the federal formula used with the FAFSA. The SPCQ may be distributed to students as part of a complete application package. Be sure to indicate where students should send or deliver all the completed documents in the application package. Before reviewing the SPCQ, the chairperson of the Awards Committee must conceal the identity of each applicant so the detailed financial information supplied by the family is not known to the committee members. All information reported by families on the SPCQ is confidential and, unless the individuals responsible for submitting the information have provided the Awards Committee with explicit approval, it cannot be discussed with anyone not associated with the committee. To do otherwise would be unfair to the families and could be a serious threat to the credibility of the committee and the chapter. Remember that the SPCQ computation (like that of the FAFSA and CSS Profile) yields only an estimate of what a family can be expected to contribute toward the students education for a given year. The results of that computation, the Suggested Parent Contribution, should not be looked upon as the final judgment in the applicants request for aid.
What is Financial Need?

Financial need is the difference between what it costs to attend a postsecondary school and the amount a family can reasonably be expected to contribute toward the cost. Thus if the School Budget is and the Suggested Parent Contribution is the students financial need is $15,000 7,500 $7,500
School Budget
For the most part, the school budget includes: 1) tuition and fees, 2) books and supplies, 3) room and board, 4) various personal expenses, and 5) transportation. The total cost varies from year to year, institution to institution. Information on college costs is published by the College Board and is very likely available in the high school guidance office. It is also available at each schools web site. When obtaining college costs, care should be taken to distinguish between in-state and out-of-state rates where applicable. Also, consider that the budgets for commuting students include more than tuition and fees. Meals, transportation, and maintenance costs are all very real expenses for the commuting student.
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Awards Suggested Parent Contribution

The suggested parent contribution is determined through calculations based upon Scholarship Americas Suggested Parent Contribution Questionnaire (SPCQ). Consideration is based on several factors: Parental income based on the prior calendar year Parent liquid assets (non-retirement) Size of household Number of family members enrolled in a postsecondary institution at least half-time Unusual circumstances that may affect the familys ability to pay While school budgets vary, the family contribution remains constant. Whether the school cost is $15,000, $25,000, or $38,000, the family in the example on the previous page will be expected to contribute only $7,500. The remainder will have to be met by one of several financial aid sources, which may include student loans, scholarships, grants, and/or work study. Together these sources are referred to as the financial aid package. Local Dollars for Scholars awards are a viable part of financial aid packaging. Use the SPCQ worksheet and the tables on the following pages to determine the suggested parent contribution and the financial need. NOTE: Updated tables for the SPCQ process are available annually (usually after December 1) on the Chapter Portal.
Alternatives to using the SPCQ

Calculating the SPCQ takes time and can be challenging. Many chapters scoring applications locally are uncomfortable with requesting/reviewing personal family financial information. There are several alternatives to the SPCQ: Naming scholarships for targeted groups that generally have need. A First Generation Scholarship may be presented to a student who is the first in the family to go to college. Often this student will demonstrate need, but the chapters did not need to review personal information to award the scholarship. Have Scholarship America/Dollars for Scholars score the SPCQ and send you a report with only the Suggested Parent Contribution by student name. Hire or locate a volunteer as an independent third party with no affiliation to the chapter to complete the SPCQ and prepare the report.
October 2011
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Awards
Calculating Financial Need

In addition to this worksheet, the following information is needed to calculate financial need: Suggested Parent Contribution Questionnaire (SPCQ) (pg. 5-26 through 5-27) Suggested Parent Contribution Tables (pg. 5-24 through 5-25) College Cost Book (or access to the Internet to look at the web site of the schools chosen) Family Income STEP 1 Adjusted gross income (SPCQ Line 2) Add untaxed income (SPCQ Line 5) = TOTAL Income Financial Allowances STEP 2 U.S. Income Tax (SPCQ Line 3) Add State & Other Taxes (Table A, pg. 5-24) Add F.I.C.A. (Table B, pg. 5-24) Wage Earner 1 Wage Earner 2 Add Medical (Table C, pg. 5-24) Add Employment Allowance (Table D, pg. 5-24) Add Standard Income Protection Allowance (Table E, pg. 5-25) = TOTAL Financial Allowances STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 STEP 6 Calculate Available Income $ + = $ + + + + + + = (AI) (IS) (AAI) (TSPC) (TA) (TI)
(TI minus TA) =
Calculate Income Supplement (Table F, pg. 5-25) Adjusted Available Income (AI + IS) =
Total Suggested Parent Contribution (TSPC) (Table G, pg. 5-25) Calculate Total Suggested Parent Contribution (TSPC) per student by dividing the TSPC (STEP 6) by the total number of family members attending a postsecondary institution at least time (do not include parents in this number even if they are in school too). (SPCQ Line 10)
(TSPC per student)
STEP 7
Determine College Cost
Financial Need Calculation Cost of College (STEP 7) Subtract Total Suggested Parent Contribution (TSPC) per student (STEP 6) = FINANCIAL NEED of STUDENT
October 2011
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Awards
Financial Allowances for Suggested Parent Contribution Questionnaires

Total Income Total income is the sum of parents IRS Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) (or fathers and mothers earnings for non-tax filers) and their untaxed income from calendar year 2011. If student is declared independent, enter students AGI or earnings only. The Federal Methodology makes an allowance for state and other taxes. This allowance, based on the percentage of total income, approximates the average amount paid by parents for state and local income, property, sales, and excise taxes. The following table (A) will be used to determine the state and other tax allowance for calendar year 2011. TOTAL INCOME STATE AK, SD, TN, WY AL, MS, ND, NM, NV, TX, WV AR, FL, IN, LA, OK, WA AZ, CO, DE, HI, IA, ID, IL, KS, MI, MO, MT, NE, NH, SC, UT GA, KY, ME, NC, OH, PA, VA, VT MA, MN, RI CA, CT, DC, OR, WI MD, NJ NY Table B F.I.C.A. Taxes $0$14,999 2% 3% 4% 5% 6% 7% 8% 9% 10% $15,000 or more 1% 2% 3% 4% 5% 6% 7% 8% 9%
State and Local Taxes
Table A State and other Taxes Allowances (Parents/Independent Students state of residence)
The social security (FICA) tax allowance, based on each parents reported income from work is also deducted from total income. For 2011, social security taxes are 7.65% of the first $106,800 earned by each parent ($8,170 maximum per person) plus 1.45% of income earned above $106,800 by each wage earner. Note: If an income amount is a negative number, no FICA allowance is given. The allowance for medical expenses is the amount of medical expenses (SPCQ, Line 6) above 5 % of total income. The Employment Allowance accounts for the extra costs incurred by families that do not have the benefit of a non-employed parent in the home (e.g., one-parent families and families with two parents working). The allowance is based on the marginal costs incurred for meals away from home, apparel and upkeep, transportation, and housekeeping services for two-worker versus one-worker families. The Employment Allowance for two working parents is 35% of the lesser-earned income to a maximum of $3,600 (whichever is less). The same allowance is applied to a single parent income. Note: If an income amount is a negative number, the maximum allowance of $3,600 is given.
Table C Medical TABLE D Employment Allowance
October 2011
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Awards
Table E Income Protection Allowance (IPA) (SPCQ Line 8) (Parents of Dependent Students/ Independent Students with Dependents) The IPA is deducted from total income to allow for the basic maintenance (living) costs of the family. TABLE F Income Supplement (Assets) Family Size* (include applicant) Allowance 1 or 2 $16,390 3 $20,410 4 $25,210 5 $29,740 6 $34,790 * For each additional family member beyond six, add $3,930
To calculate the income supplement - multiply Line 7 of the SPCQ by 5% (cash, savings, bonds, etc.). Not used in the calculation are retirement plan funds (IRA, 401K, 403B, etc.).
TABLE G Contribution from Adjusted Available Income (AAI) (Parents of Dependent Students/ Independent Students with Dependents)
Adjusted Available Income (AAI) Less than $-3,409 $-3,409 to $14,600 $14,601 to $18,400 $18,401 to $22,100 $22,101 to $25,900 $25,901 to $29,600 $29,601 or more
Total Family Contribution -$750.00 22% of AAI $3,212 + 25% of AAI over $14,600 $4,162 + 29% of AAI over $18,400 $5,235 + 34% of AAI over $22,100 $6,527 + 40% of AAI over $25,900 $8,007 + 47% of AAI over $29,600
Note: Tables last updated 10/19/2011
October 2011
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Awards
Suggested Parent Contribution Questionnaire (SPCQ)
SAMPLE
For 2012-13 School Year Chapter Name _______________________________ Note: This questionnaire should be completed by the parent(s) of the applicant unless student is independent A. STUDENT INFORMATION Mr. Ms. Last Name: Permanent Mailing Address: City: Daytime Phone: ( ) First Name: State: E-mail Address: Zip Code: MI:
B. PARENTS INCOME, EXPENSE, AND ASSET DATA (FOR THE YEAR JANUARY 1, 2011 TO DECEMBER 31, 2011) The applicants parent(s) must complete the following section. NOTE: If student is legally classified as an independent student, then student (and spouse, if any) completes this section. Indicate whether the information is from: Estimates based on current income information to be filed by April 15, 2012 A completed tax return IRS Form 1040 filing date of April 15, 2012 1. State of Residence ........................................................................................... 2. Adjusted gross income (IRS Form 1040 Line 37) ......................................... 3. Total federal tax paid (IRS Form 1040 Line 60) ............................................ 4. Total income of father (or self if Independent Student) .................................... Total income of mother ..................................................................................... $ $ $ $ $
Social Security AFDC 5. Yearly untaxed income and benefits: Indicate source Child Support Other ........................................................................ $ 6. Medical/Dental expenses not paid by insurance (exclude insurance premium) $ 7. Total cash, checking, savings, cash value of stocks, etc. (Exclude retirement plan funds, IRA, 401(k), 403(b)) ................................. 8. Total number of family members living in the household and primarily supported by the reported income .............................................................. $ #
9. Marital status of parent/legal guardian or independent students current marital status is (check one) Single Married Separated Divorced Widowed 10. Total number of family members attending a postsecondary school at least time During the 2012-2013 school year, including applicant-do not include parent # C. CERTIFICATION AND SIGNATURES
CERTIFICATION: All of the information on this form is true and complete to the best of my (our) knowledge. If asked by an authorized official of Scholarship America, I (we) agree to give proof of the information that I (we) have given on this form. I (we) realize that this proof may include a copy of my (our) 2011 U.S. and/or state income tax return. I (we) also realize that if I (we) do not give proof when asked, the student may not receive aid.
Applicants Signature Parents Signature Father Mother Yes Yes No No
(Not required for independent student)
Do you have legal custody of the student? Is the student your dependent?
Copyright 1995 Scholarship America All Rights Reserved
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Awards INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING THE SUGGESTED PARENT CONTRIBUTION QUESTIONNAIRE (SPCQ) A. STUDENT INFORMATION: The scholarship applicants name should appear on the first line on the SPCQ; however, the questionnaire must be completed by the parent(s) of the applicant. An exception is if the applicant is legally classified as an independent student. The independent student must supply his/her (and spouse, if any) financial information. B. PARENTS INCOME, EXPENSE, AND ASSET DATA: Information on this form must be from the parent(s) completed tax return or based on estimated information to be filed by April 15, 2012. Be sure to check the appropriate box. 1. State of Residence is the state where the parent(s)/independent student reside and pay state income tax. 2. Adjusted Gross Income can be found on IRS Form 1040 Line 37 and is the gross income increased or reduced by specific adjustments specified by law. 3. Total Federal Tax Paid includes the total amount of federal income tax to be paid as reported on IRS Form 1040 Line 63. This is not the amount withheld from the employees paychecks. (The amount withheld should be adjusted by any refund or additional taxes due.) Do not report state income tax. 4. Total Income of Parent(s) should be reported individually. Provide information for both natural parents, when possible. If the student resides with only one parent, financial information must be received from the parent who claims the student as a dependent for tax purposes. If a parent has remarried, the spouses information is required if the spouse is a legal guardian of the student, or claims the student as a dependent, or if the student is included in the spouses benefit plan. If necessary, two Suggested Parent Contribution Questionnaires may be submitted by the student (make copy of form as necessary). 5. Untaxed Income and Benefits include any other income or benefits not included in the adjusted gross income figure. Do not include untaxed contributions to retirement plans. 6. Medical and Dental Expenses include only those expenses not paid by insurance. Do not include premium payments. 7. Total Cash, Checking, Savings, Cash Value of Stocks, etc., include liquid assets that can be used for educational expenses. Do not include IRA, 401(k), or other retirement plan funds. 8. Total Number of Family Members living in the household and primarily supported by the reported income includes dependent college students living away from home. 9. Marital Status is the current status of the person from whom the financial information is submitted. 10. Total Number of Family Members Attending Postsecondary School includes all family members attending a two- or four-year college, university, or vocational/technical school at least half time for the upcoming school year. Be sure to include the applicant in this number do not include parents. C. CERTIFICATION AND SIGNATURES: Both the student and the parent completing the SPCQ must sign this form. Parents signature is not required for an independent student. Please read the information in the Certification box. NOTE: Any exceptions to providing financial information as instructed above must be submitted to Dollars for Scholars Chapter or Scholarship America in writing.
October 2011
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Awards
Points Worksheet
October 2011
Points Worksheet
Personal Data Max 80 pts College Vo-Tech Work Activities Goals Circumstances Applicant Appraisal Max 40 pts Test Score Max 40 pts RIC OR GPA Max 80 pts
Applicant ID Number
Total Points Max 240 pts
SAMPLE
5-28
Awards
Final Awards Summary Sheet

ID Number Total Points Award Amount
SAMPLE
Name
Award Sponsor
October 2011
5-29
Other Committees
Other Committee Assignments

As your chapter develops, the need for several other committees/task forces may surface. Its helpful to have committee assignments in place at the start of each year. Other suggested committees include: Finance / Investment Committee Nominating / Governance Committee Alumni Committee Bylaws / Policy Committee Academic Support
Finance / Investment Committee

As funds grow, the chapter may wish to assign a committee to explore options and alternatives for being good stewards of funds entrusted to the chapter. Refer to Chapter 2, Handling Assets, or call the Scholarship America/Dollars for Scholars office in your area for assistance with the kinds of responsibilities appropriate for this committee.
Nominating / Governance Committee

The nominating committee generates names of potential board members. These new board members will replace exiting board members as their terms expire. Members of the committee will approach prospective board members and bring the names of the interested people to the board for an eventual election to the Board of Directors. A nominating committee prepares for the next year.
Alumni Committee
If a chapter has opportunities to interact with local high school alumni, the chapter may wish to appoint a chair and committee for this opportunity. It may be as simple as one person to visit with the school superintendent and provide an Alumni Challenge option to each class reunion committee chair for the upcoming summer, or it could be more involved such as a special mailing or project for an all-school reunion. Each area of the country has its own traditions and this committee can adapt its mission in accordance with its practices.
Bylaws / Policy Committee

From time to time chapters may need to draft wording for bylaw changes and policy statements. Bylaws should be reviewed annually to be sure they are adhered to and if not, they should be amended to reflect chapter practices, or practices should be altered to adhere to the bylaws. This committee has the responsibility to review and recommend revisions, along with a draft of the revision for board consideration and approval. Bylaw changes must be approved by the national Scholarship America/Dollars for Scholars office. To make changes to your bylaws, submit a copy of the amended bylaws, along with a copy of the minutes where the bylaw amendment was voted on, to Dollars for Scholars, PO Box 297, St. Peter, MN 56082. You will receive a letter confirming approval of your amended bylaws.
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Other Committees Academic Support

Academic Support can be defined as any non-scholarship effort that helps students do better in elementary, middle, or high school or that helps them have access to and succeed in their postsecondary education plans. Most high schools offer programs such as a Financial Aid Night for seniors and their parents. This meeting prepares families to navigate the financial aid process and complete the FAFSA application. Chapters often participate in such nights to be sure the community is aware of its scholarship opportunities. High schools also offer other opportunities to learn about all scholarships available, prepare for ACT/SAT tests, CLEP tests, obtain tutoring, learn about local mentoring programs and more.
Scholarship America is also home to a program called ScholarShop , which is a comprehensive academic support program for students of all ages and their parents. Each of these efforts contributes to the overall academic support available to local students.
Academic support projects are not required work of a Dollars for Scholars chapter, but they often naturally emerge from the overall purpose: to increase access to postsecondary education and provide scholarships to local students.
How Dollars for Scholars Chapters Can Help

How can Dollars for Scholars chapters contribute to any academic support offered by their high schools and community? There are a number of programs offered by local Dollars for Scholars chapters. The following summary provides a brief overview of options being implemented by chapters across the nation. Learn more about ScholarShop and partner with an existing after-school program or youth group. To contact ScholarShop staff call 800/248-8080 or e-mail to dollarsforscholars@scholarshipamerica.org. Have a board member attend the financial aid meeting for seniors and parents and provide a description of what the Dollars for Scholars chapter does, how the local chapter supports all types of postsecondary education, the criteria for a Dollars for Scholars award, scoring methods to determine the awards recipients and how an outside scholarship such as Dollars for Scholars awards impacts the financial aid package. Publicize the same information in local newsletters and newspapers. Co-sponsor a workshop for ACT/SAT preparation. Professionals offer these sessions for a fee and your chapter might wish to sponsor this event to benefit all students. Work with a PTO/PTA or elementary administrator to offer a special meeting or have a booth set up to educate parents of young children about saving for college now. Partner with existing events such as parent-teacher conferences to offer this important information. Identify an emerging need in your area and create a specific academic support plan to address it, such as tutoring or mentoring. Offer chapter-sponsored sessions for parents of juniors and seniors to introduce college selection, admission and financial processes. Theses sessions can enhance and precede existing local efforts to reduce anxiety earlier in the college preparation cycle.
June 2011
6-2
Other Committees
Proven Academic Support Projects from Around the United States

Academic Support Week
Lanesville Community Dollars for Scholars in Indiana sprinkles fun with learning when they sponsor an Academic Support Week at the local high school each fall. The schools 200 students in grades 7-12 eagerly participate, pursuing answers to academically challenging scavenger hunt questions. Other events include a career fair, a college t-shirt day, and teachers handing out SAT questions at the beginning of each class period. Students earn points for participating and the highest scoring class gets a pizza party.
Adopt-a-Class
The Burlington Community Scholarship Foundation in Massachusetts invites business employee groups to Adopt-a-Class. The employees adopt a particular class in the Burlington School System and agree to work closely with their class to raise scholarship funds for the class. Many of them go further and provide mentors to the class, invite students to tour company facilities, and offer other enrichment activities.
Postsecondary Resources
Lanesville Community Dollars for Scholars in Indiana has set up a higher education resource center in the school library. Chapter volunteers set up a table in the student cafeteria during Dollars for Scholars Week in New York to answer questions and assist students in filling out their scholarship applications.
Mentoring
The Norwalk Mentor Program in Connecticut provides one-to-one mentoring for over 700 at-risk students in grades K-10. Norwalk Dollars for Scholars has become a partner with this successful national model, guaranteeing scholarships for participants who pursue postsecondary education. Somerville Mathematics Fund in Massachusetts has a relationship with a local math software developer who donates math software to local teachers submitting proposals to the chapter. The chapter also sponsors math-related days such as Pi Day (3.1417) and Metric Day (10.10) to encourage interest and proficiency in mathematics.
Service
Twenty northwestern Washington students combined fundraising, community service, and some practical skill building by spending the summer painting half the buildings in tiny Metaline Falls. The whole community got behind the project by donating paint and money, helping to clean up the old buildings, and hauling away trash. The results went well beyond the scholarships provided.
Summer Enrichment
The East Greenbush Education Foundation and Freeport Dollars for Scholars in New York use some of the scholarship funds they raise to help junior and senior high students explore career options, educational programs, and enrichment activities over the summer break. Each year students participate in summer programs varying from oceanography, dance, art, and literature, to the natural sciences.
Tutoring
CSF of Altmar-Parish-Williamstown in New York sponsors a tutoring program for high school students. Volunteers assist students in math, science, English, social studies, and languages during the school day when students are in study hall.
June 2011
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Other Committees Work Experience

Brockton Dollars for Scholars in Massachusetts has formed partnerships with urban job placement and counseling programs for teens MY TURN. The program helps the students make important career and life decisions, which often include higher education. MY TURN, for example, offers college counseling, tutoring, financial aid workshops, and an intensive academic summer institute. The scholarship opportunities offered by the chapter provide an added incentive for participants.
Academic Financial Support

Glenburn Dollars for Scholars in North Dakota has a donor providing scholarships to high school seniors taking courses while in high school that provide college credit. Scholarships cover the cost of tuition, making it possible for these students to get a jump on college while still in high school.
June 2011
6-4
Sample Documents
Sample Letters, Forms, PR Documents

This section contains printed samples of various letters, forms, etc. that will help you fulfill your chapters mission. All these documents are also contained as electronic Word or Excel documents on the disk included in this Guidebook. Modify these electronic documents as needed for your chapter activities. Page numbers indicate either where samples are shown or where samples are referenced. * * Indicates a form that is updated yearly and is not found on the enclosed disk. NOTE: All forms are located on the Chapter Portal http://chapterportal.saportal.org for you to download and use.
Organizing a Chapter
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Questions and Answers (page 1-8) Community Cross-Section Worksheet (page 1-9) Job Descriptions (page 1-11) Board Member Expectation Statement (page 1-13) Annual Calendar of Events (page 1-14) Meeting Agenda (page 1-15)
Document File Name

Q&A.doc WkshtCommBkgr.doc Sample_JobDescription.doc Sample_BoardMemberExpect.doc Sample_AnnualCalendarEvents.doc Sample_MeetingAgenda.doc
Chapter Assets
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. Chapter Fund Management (page 2-3) Investment Procedures and Policies (page 2-5) Sample 1: Endowed Scholarship Agreement (page 2-10) Sample 2: Endowed Scholarship Agreement (page 2-11) Pass-Through Scholarship Agreement (page 2-14) Sample Income Journal (page 2-18) Sample Expense Journal (page 2-18) Blank Income Journal (page 2-18) Blank Expense Journal (page 2-18) Excel Spreadsheet (page 2-18) Excel Spreadsheet Instructions (page 2-18)
Document File Name

Sample_ChapterFundMgmt.doc Sample_InvestProced&Pol.doc Sample1_EndowedScholAgree.doc Sample2_EndowedScholAgree.doc Sample_PassThruScholAgree.doc ** ** ** ** ** **
Publicity & PR
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Sample Chapter Letterhead (page 3-4) News Release Sponsored Gift (page 3-9) News Release Post Fundraising Announcement (page 3-9) News Release Annual Meeting and Election (page 3-9) News Release Annual Awards Presentation (page 3-9) Media Advisory Annual Award Presentation (page 3-9) Boilerplate (page 3-9) Public Service Announcement (page 3-10)
Document File Name

Sample_ChapterLhd.doc Sample_NewsRls_SponsGift.doc Sample_NewsRls_PostFundRsng.doc Sample_NewsRls_AnnMtg.doc Sample_NewsRls_AnnualAwards.doc Sample_MediaAdvis_Awards.doc Sample_Boilerplate.doc Sample_PSA.doc
June 2011
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Sample Documents Awards

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. Scholarship Timeline (page 5-2) Student Application (page 5-2) Adult Application (page 5-3) Recipient Letter #1 (page 5-4) Recipient Letter #2 (page 5-4) Non-Recipient Letter (page 5-4) Award Recipient Flow Chart (page 5-5) Acknowledgement Form #1 (page 5-5) Acknowledgement Form #2 (page 5-5) Acknowledgement Form #3 (page 5-5) Letter to Accompany Award Check (page 5-6) Chapter Letter to Financial Aid Office (Collegiate Partner Institutions Not Providing Matching Awards) (page 5-6) Chapter Letter to Financial Aid Office (Non-Collegiate Partner Institutions) (page 5-6) Matching Award Request Form (for use with Matching Collegiate Partners only) (page 5-6) Scholarship Recipient Record (page 5-6) Recipient List (page 5-6) Chapter Awards Policy (page 5-8) Chapter Awards List (page 5-9) Financial Assistance Questionnaire (FAQ) Form (page 5-26) Points Worksheet (page 5-28) Final Awards Summary Sheet (page 5-29)
Document File Name

ScholarshipTimeline.doc ScholarshipApplication.doc Application_PostGrad.doc Sample_RecipLtr1.doc Sample_RecipLtr2.doc Sample_NonRecipLtr.doc AwardRecipFlowChart.doc Sample_AcknowlForm1.doc Sample_AcknowlForm2.doc Sample_AcknowlForm3.doc Sample_AwardCheckLtr.doc Sample_FinAidCPLtr.doc Sample_FinAidNonCPLtr.doc ** Sample_RecipientRecord.doc ** Sample_ChapAwardPolicy.doc Sample_ChapAwardList.doc ** Sample_PointsWorksheet.doc Sample_AwardSummarySheet.doc
June 2011
7-2

Dollars For Scholars Chapter Guidebook

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Dollars For Scholars Chapter Guidebook

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Dollars for Scholars Chapter Guidebook

INTRODUCTION ORGANIZING A DOLLARS FOR SCHOLARS CHAPTER

HANDLING CHAPTER ASSETS

PUBLICITY AND PUBLIC RELATIONS (PR)