Fostering the Arts extends scholarship deadline

Fostering the Arts is extending its deadline for students to apply for scholarships for to fund taking arts programs to July 31.

Executive Director Anna Bowman said they wanted to give a little bit of extra time.

The deadline applies to low income applicants. The scholarships will remain open to foster children who apply.

"Fostering the Arts is a nonprofit organization in Saline County that works to provide scholarships," Bowman said.

The scholarships can be used for any type of arts program from dance to drawing, as well as, equipment a student may need. It is meant for children in foster care and low income students.

The goal is to allow them to take part in the arts.

Bowman said many people think the scholarships are just for use at DOXA Arts Academy, which Bowman runs. She said they are for any arts program.

She talked about a recent student who joined one of Bowman's classes who is in foster care. When he started, he was nervous and reserved but by the end of the class he had opened up and was smiling.

She said art helps children who are in uncomfortable situations. Bowman encouraged any family needing help getting their child into classes to apply for a scholarship. She does not want families to disqualify themselves by assuming they do not qualify.

"The board has the heart to help," said Bowman.

Fostering the Arts raises funds with its annual

Sweet Arts Ball, along with corporate and monthly giving. The ball this year raised $11,000 for scholarships. Bowman said the money goes to the scholarships, not salaries or administration.

"It goes to help kids," said Bowman.

Anyone wishing to contribute to the fund is anna@fosterarts.org or call 501-314-0864. It can also be set up through the website. There is a monthly giving option.

Once a person submits the application, it is reviewed by the board which makes the decision to allocate available funds. If a scholarship is awarded, the winner is notified. The check goes to the parents for lessons or equipment.

Bowman said the scholarship is needs based, not merit based. Applications are at www.fosterarts.org.

Applicants will need to fill out information and provide supplemental documents.

Bowman said they normally give 25 to 30 scholarships each year.

"We have money to give away. Lets do it," Bowman said.