Subscribe to MWCC News The Mount Wachusett Community College Foundation, Inc. has been awarded a grant of $8,070 from the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts. The grant will provide scholarships to 15-30 children of MWCC students for the Equity in Summer Adventures Program this summer at the MWCC Gardner campus.
The Equity in Summer Adventures Program, led by the college’s Division of Lifelong Learning and Workforce Development, integrates outdoor recreation, STEM, life skills, and creative expression to foster emotional and physical development in children while instilling a sense of environmental responsibility. By combining science, art, and play, the program helps children care for the planet and benefits families by supporting the educational journeys of MWCC students. Participants will develop a deeper understanding of environmental preservation, strengthen their academic skills, and boost their confidence through engaging, hands-on learning activities.
“The Equity in Summer Adventures Program aligns with MWCC’s commitment to engage both parents and children in high-quality learning experiences that foster family-wide educational growth,” stated MWCC President James Vander Hooven. “By providing these scholarships, the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts is helping to promote educational success for both parents and children, helping to break the cycle of poverty and improve economic mobility for families in North Central Massachusetts.”
“Summer vacation poses a significant challenge for low-income families in our region,” said MWCC Foundation Executive Director Carla Zottoli. “Many children miss out on critical educational and enrichment opportunities, widening the gap in academic achievement and personal development. Our Summer Adventures Program will bridge that gap, offering outdoor education experiences that help children build an appreciation for nature and sustainability.”
For MWCC parent students, many of whom struggle to afford enrichment opportunities for their children during the summer, the Summer Adventures Program also presents a unique solution. One in four students at MWCC is a parent, and many report difficulty securing affordable care or educational enrichment during the summer months. The proposed scholarships will allow these students to continue their studies while ensuring their children participate in educational and recreational activities.
The MWCC Division of Lifelong Learning and Workforce Development has run the Summer Adventures Program for twelve years, offering enriching activities that engage youth through active learning, excursions, and hands-on experience. Visit mwcc.edu/youth to learn more.