GOLCONDA—Arrowleaf recently awarded two students from Pope County High School Community Ambassador Scholarships.
Seniors Kaylynn Harris and Abigail Adduci have each received $500 for their educations and on-the-job training with Arrowleaf.
“We started a Community Ambassador Scholarship in Pope and Hardin County this school year with an objective to increase the students’ knowledge of the Health and Human Services sector in their community and to encourage entry into the Health and Human Services workforce within the southern seven counties of Illinois upon graduation,” explained CEO Sherrie L. Crabb. “Over the years, we have seen a decline in residents of these two counties accessing our services as well as a reduction in individuals applying for jobs there. We are hopeful this initiative will help increase awareness of what we do and how the community can be a part of our important mission!”
Before receiving their scholarships, Harris and Adduci received 8 hours of on-the-job training while visiting most of Arrowleaf’s service locations and meeting staff and clients.
Harris intends to attend Shawnee Community College after high school. As a result of her recent experiences with Arrowleaf and especially thanks to spending time with Community Engagement Assistant Director Marsha Hayes, Harris has decided she wants to work at Arrowleaf after completing her degree.
“I plan to pursue a career at Arrowleaf after college because of my amazing experience with Marsha,” said Harris. “It really opened my eyes on ways I can help people!”
Adduci plans to study at University of Southern Indiana in Evansville for a degree in Social Work.
“After graduation, I plan to return home and work for Arrowleaf,” said Adduci. “The opportunity Arrowleaf has given me to tour their facilities, meet their staff and clients and learn about everything they do has inspired me to pursue a career in Social Work. I am so thrilled to have this agency supporting me in my educational journey!”
Both Harris and Adduci intend to volunteer at Arrowleaf during their time in college.
Hardin County scholarship recipients will be announced in the coming weeks.
For more information about Arrowleaf, visit myarrowleaf.org.