By Kelly A. Shue
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

This fall, a record-breaking 51 Maryland students begin their pursuit of a college education with the help of the Riderwood Scholars Fund. Created to support student staff members as they continue their formal postsecondary education, recipients receive up to $4,000 for college, trade, or vocational certificate programs.

A tangible expression of the bond that forms between Riderwood’s student employees and the residents who they serve daily, the Scholars Fund embodies the community’s commitment to the mission of “sharing our gifts to create a community that celebrates life.”

Spirit of generosity
“Our student recipients really understand their piece of this mission and they truly give their all,” says Director of Philanthropy Miriam Isserow. “For most of our students, this is their first job and the Riderwood staff and residents take the responsibility seriously. Our students learn about the value of good service and a job well done. Many residents take students under their wings and serve as an example of what scholarships  and higher education can do to change their lives.”

Hoping to ease the financial burden associated with the pursuit of higher  education, the Riderwood community has raised $435,000 and awarded 112 scholarships in the last five years.