Afro-Latin-Indian Scholarship

The Afro-Latin-Indian Scholarships, presented annually by New Opportunities Inc., are awarded competitively to any students in grades 6 through 12 who either live or attend school in Waterbury, regardless of race or ethnic background.

Since the scholarship program was created 24 years ago, about 250 middle and high school students have benefited from monetary awards totaling close to $600,000. In the words of Dr. James Gatling, President and CEO of New Opportunities, “This financial support helps to build the bridge between a child’s dream and the reality of obtaining higher education.”

There are three categories of awards: Art, Essay and Poetry. From grades 6 through 11, cash prizes are given for first through third place. Those in grade 12 may participate in the Scholarship Division contest if they plan to attend an institute of higher learning in the following academic season. First prize for scholarship contestants is a four -year award; each scholarship winner in 2009 won $1500 a year for four years. Competitors who earn second or third place each receive a one-year award toward their education costs.

The application process for the Afro-Latin-Indian Scholarships opens in early March and deadlines at the end of April. Applications are made available at all Waterbury public and private high schools and middle schools, as well as local youth organizations.

For more information call New Opportunities at (203) 575-4209 or email Festival [at] NewOpportunitiesInc [dot] org.