By Tom Mackie
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

Maris Grove is quickly proving to be more than a community that provides incredible maintenance-free living for its 300-plus residents. It’s bringing more than 1,000 new jobs to Delaware County plus, offering some scholarly advice to a younger generation. As Erickson's newest Pennsylvania community, Maris Grove is giving high school students the opportunity to earn college scholarship money.

“It’s a scholarship program that’s proved to be so successful at other Erickson communities over the years, we are pleased to offer it here at Maris Grove,” says Joe Guidetti, Maris Grove’s director of dinning services and one of the program’s organizers.

The Maris Grove Scholars’ Fund provides awards to assist eligible student employees with college or trade school expenses. The scholarships awarded are a tremendous source of encouragement for the young people who work in Maris Grove’s restaurants. Scholars are eligible for awards up to $500 per semester for up to eight semesters, or a maximum of $4,000.

“If a student is awarded scholarship money it’s sent directly to his or her school,” says Joe. “The scholarship program is one of the great reasons for students to work at Maris Grove. Once parents find out about the scholarship opportunities, they become as excited as the students. It continues to be very successful.”

How Scholarships Are Awarded
To qualify, candidates must be employed yearround at Maris Grove; must have worked a minimum of 1,000 hours in their junior and senior years; must intend to continue their education beyond high school; and be registered or accepted at a professional or trade school, college, or university. In order to receive the scholarship, the scholars must attend school full-time (at least 12 credits per semester).

The Scholars’ Fund continues to be an overwhelming success at many Erickson communities. At Maris Grove’s sister community, Ann’s Choice in Bucks County, funds for the scholarships are donated by residents.