These veterans protect our freedom and our country – it is now time to repay the favor.
Why Invest In Educating US Veterans?
Veterans make up only 4% of the undergraduate college population, and that number is growing.
Veterans unemployment rate is 7.2% compared to the national average of 5.2%.
80% are between 25-30 years old.
62% of our Student Veterans are the first in their family to attend college.
The average GPA for a Student Veteran is 3.35.
47% are married.
46% have children.
15% are single parents.
27% are women.
Education for our Student Veterans is an added financial burden that many are hesitant to take.
About the Challenge
As Americans, we owe everything to these fine men and women who risk their lives to protect our freedom and safety. While Memorial Day is an important day to pay tribute to those who have served our nation, Birds Nest Foundation believes that all of us should consider what more we can do to honor our troops. The Veterans Education Challenge creates a valuable new avenue that Americans can use to pay-it-forward, allowing our Veterans the wonderful opportunity and encouragement to gain a college degree.
The Veterans Education Challenge is dedicated to sending United States Military veterans to college by providing them with needed scholarships that the GI Bill does not cover. For every dollar up to $1 million raised by the general public, the Richards family will match it, with a guarantee that 100% goes toward veteran scholarships.
We know how valuable our veterans are, both in combat and in the classroom. However, these dedicated and loyal men and women must make big adjustments to enter college in hopes of developing their post-military career. Veterans make up only 4% of the undergraduate college population and the unemployment rate for Veterans is 7.2% compared to the national average of 5.2%. A majority of veterans have a spouse and/or children, so education is an added financial burden that many are hesitant to take. With America’s help, the Veterans Education Challenge will raise college enrollment and the graduation rate, which will undeniably lower unemployment, one Veteran collegiate scholar at a time.
The goal of the fund is to reinforce our veterans’ right to education and their ability to succeed in both higher education and life in general. The fund will support tuition, room and board, and other related and allowable living expenses. All veteran scholarship awards will be based on financial need with a priority and preference to Pell-eligible undergraduate and graduate students. Veterans will be eligible to renew awards based on financial need and standing with their universities.