STRIVE

Making a difference - that's what the STRIVE Scholarship Program is really all about. We can tell you about helping students improve "The Three A's": Academics, Attendance, and Attitude, but it's really about making a difference in a student's life - and your own.

"Our vision is to develop and coordinate a program for high school sophomores, juniors and seniors which integrates students with qualified, committed, educated mentors. This program will be supported by community resources and will provide incentives, rewards, and resources for academic achievement, attendance, and a positive attitude."

What is STRIVE?:
A student support program offered through Grand Haven Rotary Club and in cooperation with Grand Haven High School.

Who can join?:
Qualified students who are working toward a high school diploma but may be having difficulty in completing all requirements. Most students are hand-picked by their counselors and are "at risk", have a term reflecting low attendance rates, and/or have GPA's below 2.0. They may also be referred to the program for non-academic reasons.

The STRIVE Triangle:
The core structure utilized in mentoring each student is the relationship and open communication developed between the student, the counselor, and the mentor. (This structure in no way excludes parents or guardians from the process).

What support is offered?:
Adults volunteer their time to encourage and work with students on an individual basis just to "be there" and to provide mentoring and assistance as it may be needed. Group meetings include field trips to area colleges, seminars on how to improve study skills, and fun activities. Mentors are asked to devote about 1 hour each week to their student, in addition to some initial training time at the beginning of the school year.

What incentives are given?:
Students receive marking period financial awards for improvement in grades and attendance. Additionally, scholarships are awarded for the two graduating seniors who are the most improved.