This foundation has awarded $800,000 in scholarships to women returning to college

Rita Wilkins, president of Fresh Start Scholarship Foundation, wants to empower women through education.
Fresh Start Scholarship Foundation, now in its twentieth year, provides scholarships to women returning to college. The awards are given based on need, academic record and potential for success.
In order to be eligible for the scholarships, applicants must have previously been enrolled in college and dropped out, reside in Delaware, attend a Delaware university and be at least 20 years old.
“We have money available and would like to give it to women who want a better life,” Wilkins said.
The number of scholarships that are given out varies each year, depending on the number of women that apply. Wilkins hopes to provide at least 18 women with scholarships this funding cycle, since 18 of the current recipients will be graduating this spring.
The deadline for this funding cycle is May 15.
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The Fresh Start Scholarship Foundation’s staff is made up of volunteers, who dedicate their time and resources to the women they serve.
“The girls are highly motivated. They are pretty amazing women who inspire me,” Wilkins said. “Ask anyone who works with them. We don’t even feel like it’s work, because we know the impact we have on them is great.”
Wilkins, who was once a single mother herself, feels especially connected to the women and their stories.
“I was a single mom and I know how difficult that was,” she said. “I was lucky enough to have a strong network of family and friends around me. These girls don’t have that.”
In the 20 years since its inception, the organization has granted 186 women with nearly $840,000 in scholarships. The foundation has also managed to maintain a 70 percent graduation rate, with students having an average GPA of 3.55, according to Wilkins.
“It’s great to see these women become role models for their families and friends,” said Wilkins. “A lot of the time they create the ripple effect. Their kids see them going to college, so they strive to go to college. Or their friends see them graduate and be successful, so they want to sign up too.”
Along with the scholarships, the women are provided with one-on-one mentoring. They are taught interviewing skills and given opportunities to network with other professionals.
Wilkins is proud of the camaraderie the women have with one another, recalling a moment during last year’s graduation ceremony.
“We gave each of the graduates a chance to say something to their peers, and each one gave the same advice: ‘Don’t quit and when you feel like quitting, reach out and ask for help.’ It is great to see a community of scholars that help each other. Women helping women,” she said.