Start a Chapter

Dollars for Scholars® is a proven way to support higher education for local youth. All the organizational materials you need are contained in our “How to Organize a Dollars for Scholars Chapter Kit.” To request a copy, contact Illinois Dollars for Scholars. Approximately every week, another community sends its youth a message of hope and commitment by starting a Dollars for Scholars chapter. Now you can spread the spirit of education in your community. Feel the power. Start a chapter now.

Steps to Start a Chapter

Begin by gathering a strong core group of community leaders with a shared interest in the educational development of local students; this is your planning committee. Since this group will play an important leadership role in the formation of a local foundation—and since Dollars for Scholars works best when it has widespread support—it should represent a broad cross-section of the community.

Next, apply to begin a chapter by completing three simple forms, electing chapter leaders, adopting chapter by-laws and determining your goals and objectives.

The cost to affiliate with Illinois Dollars for Scholars® is $150, with a $150 annual renewal fee. Your chapter can start fundraising and awarding scholarships immediately upon affiliation.

Dollars for Scholars chapters perform these functions:

  • Develops a process for smooth and permanent operation of the chapter
  • Promotes recognition of the Dollars for Scholars program
  • Raises funds for student aid distribution
  • Distributes awards on a fair basis
  • Provides academic support and/or mentoring for students

Illinois Dollars for Scholars thanks it founding sponsor, Nicor Gas

Since 1997, founding sponsor Nicor Gas has contributed more than a quarter of a million dollars to help establish more than 140 chapters and make Illinois Dollars for Scholars the fastest-growing region in America.