Become a Student Award Maker and Join the Hundreds of Donors Who Have Granted Over $7 Million to Local Graduates Since 1990

Abbotsford Community Foundation’s Student Award Program is one of the largest of its kind in the Fraser Valley, making it possible for local Abbotsford high school grads to pursue studies in everything from STEM fields to trades, the arts, agriculture, manufacturing, vocational careers and so much more.

Our awards program began in 1990 and as of June 2023, has provided over $7 million in post-secondary scholarships and bursaries to local grads. This year alone, we provided over $233,000 to 247 graduating students. Through these gifts, our donors continue to create opportunities in the lives of young people in our community – today, tomorrow, and forever.

Every time we meet with a donor wanting to set up an award – whether that’s an individual, families, service clubs, local charities and non-profits, businesses, or groups that come together – it’s clear to us that they all have a story to share. They are inspired through the circumstances of their own lives, to create opportunities for young people in our community. This year’s student award video shares the stories of 8 individuals – donors and recipients – highlighting just how diverse, inclusive, and transformative our awards program can be. 

Becoming a Student Award Maker

Many people often think that they could never offer their own award. And yet, when we talk about how they can get started and the options we offer, the possibilities open up and we see the light in their eyes. You don’t have to be extremely wealthy to be a student award maker. In fact, most of our award donors simply have a giving heart and a passion for supporting youth in their post-secondary pursuits. 

Donors set up awards for things that matter most to them and for the legacy they want to leave. Many awards are in memory or in honour of a loved one to celebrate and remember a life lived. Sometimes, a group of people come together to set up an award to commemorate a significant event in their lives such as their own graduation. Companies may wish to support young people seeking a career in their sector. Community organizations may wish to encourage service and volunteerism in future generations. Whatever you’re passionate about, we can help you create an award that supports what matters to you.

Join the hundreds of donors who are giving a hand up to young people today, tomorrow, and forever. For information on how you can become a Student Award Maker or donate to an existing award, please contact Areni at arenik@abbotsfordcf.org or call her at 604-850-3755. We’d love to hear your story.