• Letters from 2007-2008 Scholarship Recipients
• Letters from 2006-2007 Scholarship Recipients
• Letters from 2004-2005 Scholarship Recipients
• Letters from 2003-2004 Scholarship Recipients
      - Updates from Scholarship Recipients 2002-2004
      - Letters from Graduating Seniors - May 2003
• Letters from Parents

The students who receive Kids' Chance scholarships, and their stories, speak to the heart of our mission. We are pleased to share with you some of the thank you letters we have received from scholarship recipients and their families.

Congratulations to this year's Scholarship Recipients!

Letters From 2007 - 2008 Recipients

Dear Kid's Chance,

I cannot thank you enough for allowing me to receive your scholarship for this academic year! Your scholarship has paid off the last bit of tuition that was going to have to come out of my pocket and allowed me to continue on to college this year! Ever since my dad hurt himself by falling off a roof at work a few years ago, I always wondered how I was going to be able to pay for ALL of college. Now, thanks to you, the final gap in my tuition has been filled, and I no longer need to worry for the rest of the year. This scholarship has really taken a financial load off of me, because now I won't need to take out ANOTHER loan to help pay! I cannot thank you enough!

I have finally settled into college, and I really like it. It took me a bit to change over to the college atmosphere. It is so much more independent and difficult than high school was! I am really looking forward to having a great year here at Pitt, and so far, everything is going really well.

Thank you again!
Charles Bowman

Dear Kids’ Chance and Universal SmartComp:

Thanks to the generosity of Kids’ Chance and Universal SmartComp, I am well on my way to achieving my lifelong dream of becoming a physical therapist. I am currently completing my junior year at St. Francis University that will allow me to graduate in 2011 with a doctoral degree in physical therapy. I am proud to have earned dean’s list recognition for the past four semesters.

At the end of the semester, I will have met the educational requirements outlined by Saint Francis University to receive a minor in Spanish. The ability to speak Spanish as a second language will be an important skill to allow me to effectively communicate with patients of Hispanic background that I will encounter in my profession. I have met the eligibility requirements to be inducted into Phi Sigma Iota International Foreign Language Honor Society in the fall of 2008.

I am currently serving as Vice President of Public Relations in the Physical Therapy Organization on campus and initiated the formation of a club exclusively for commuting students, where I serve as the current President. After classes, I am able to assist in both the Outward Bound Office and the Counseling Center as part of the work-study program. These jobs allow me to develop administrative skills that will be important in my future practice.

I am looking forward to beginning the professional phase of the physical therapy program in June 2008. This summer we will learn human anatomy through the completion of a cadaver dissection and will learn the fundamentals of physical therapy through the completion of an intensive eight week summer course load. I am extremely optimistic about furthering my understanding of physical therapy in this specialized period of the curriculum.

Due to the unexpected and catastrophic death of my father in 1997, I significantly rely on financial aid and student loans to help finance my education. Receiving this scholarship will help reduce my financial burdens and will alleviate some of the economic stresses that I will face upon graduation. I am extremely grateful for the support the Kid’s Chance scholarship has provided in the past. Receipt of this award motivates me to continue to strive for academic excellence and personal growth. I respectfully request your continued support in the 2008-2009 academic year.

Respectively,
Britta E. Albright

Dear Kids’ Chance of Pennsylvania,

My mom and I would like to thank Kids’ Chance for the scholarship that was provided to me. This helps defray some of my schooling costs.

In April of 1996, I lost my father due to a fatal truck accident while working on the job.

Since then I graduated high school in 2004 and am currently attending Mansfield University, with my major in music education and a minor in Business. I’m a member of Alpha Sigma Alpha, which helps out the Special Olympics, S. June Smith Center and other community events.

Once again I would like to thank you for the help you have provided for my education.

Sincerely,
Jennifer Monaghan

Dear Kids’ Chance,

Thank you so much for the generous donation of the scholarship that you have provided me for my college education. It’s so hard for me to put into words what this money means to our family in our present financial circumstances. You have no idea how grateful I am to receive your generous scholarship. This money that you have once again provided for me has gone towards another year of my academic studies and freed my parents (and me) from financial troubles.

Every year I write you a thank you letter and every year I sit here attempting to elaborate on my gratitude I feel deep inside me towards your organization. So once again my family and I thank you for another academic year that you have helped support.

Sincerely,
Kevin Gorman

To Kids’ Chance & ACE INA Foundation:

With the recent conclusion of the fall semester of my junior year at Bloomsburg University, I would like to update you on my current academic status and the extra-curricular activities in which I participated in throughout the semester. I still hold a dual major in Speech-Language Pathology/Audiology and Spanish, and I completed the semester on the Dean’s List with a grade point average of 3.53. As part of my Clinical Observation class, I had several opportunities to observe Speech-Language Pathologists working in hospitals and schools in the community. These observation experiences greatly enhanced my interest and understanding of the field of Speech-Language Pathology.

During the semester, I participated in two student organizations on campus, NSSLHA (National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association) and HABLAS (Bloomsburg University Spanish Club). I was also able to gain additional Spanish speaking experience by translating Spanish for nurses at a migrant worker camp. Along with being involved in academic extra-curricular activities, I continue to work in the Bloomsburg University Department of Nursing as a student secretary.

With the spring semester quickly approaching, I am currently arranging a summer internship in the field of Speech-Language Pathology and researching graduate programs where I will be able to continue my education.

I would like to thank you for significantly helping me to achieve my collegiate goals! Your scholarship is greatly appreciated!

Sincerely,
Lauren Sones

Dear Kids’ Chance of PA and ACE INA Foundation,

Thanks in part to your generosity, the first semester of my sophomore year went relatively smoothly. This semester was my first in the School of Engineering at the University of Pittsburgh. Classes were difficult, to say the least, but I learned that I enjoy being challenged. Also, I am beginning to understand how to handle the workload associated with my major. I anticipate using my spare time to join new clubs or societies on campus this upcoming semester.

Additionally, I am really looking forward to my Intro to Environmental Engineering course next semester. Hopefully, it will get me excited about environmental engineering as a possible concentration. I am also considering Pitt’s newest concentration in sustainability as a career path. Thanks again for your generous scholarship that allows me to pursue a solid education.

Sincerely,
Jacquelyn Speakman

Dear Kids' Chance of PA and Eastern Alliance Insurance Group,

I am excited about being halfway through my college education. Two years down, two more to go. I just finished my sophomore year at Duquesne University where I am double majoring in economics and international business. It was an extremely challenging year. I had courses like accounting, business law, quantitative analysis, micro and macro economics. This coming year I am enrolled in courses more centrally focused on economics.

I am a member of Duquesne's Division 1 Women's Rowing team and we had another great year. At least some of our boats placed in all the regattas we attended, despite tough competition.

I also wanted to extend a thank you for inviting me to speak at your contributor recognition event in Hershey. It was great to meet the people who make my scholarship possible, and it was very cool you had the founder of Kids' Chance there. He was charismatic and funny, and I enjoyed talking to him.

I really appreciate the scholarships I have received these last two years. I worked last semester while studying for classes and still rowing and it was very difficult. School is demanding in itself, but all together it was nearly impossible. This experience has made me that much more thankful for Kids' Chance and the organizations that donate, such as the Eastern Alliance Insurance Group. Thanks so much.

Sincerely,
Brittney Stuck

Letters From 2006 - 2007 Recipients

Dear Kids’ Chance and Ace Foundation,

I am honored and pleased to receive notification that I am a scholarship recipient for the 2006-2007 academic year. It is with deep gratitude that I accept this scholarship. Your confidence and willingness to support my education endeavors are greatly appreciated.

I am entering my sophomore year at St. Francis University working towards a doctoral degree in physical therapy. The program extends for six years and three internships. This summer I was able to secure a job at Altoona Arthritis. The experience helped me gain a better perception of the operations in a clinical setting, gave the opportunity to directly assist patients, and gain a deeper understanding of those who suffer from pain and immobility due to arthritis and other debilitating diseases.

I rely on financial aid and student loans to help finance my education. Receiving this scholarship will help reduce my financial burdens and I am extremely grateful for the support this scholarship provides. Receipt of this award motivates me to continue to strive for academic excellence and personal growth.

Once again, thank you for supporting my education endeavors. Your benevolence truly makes a difference. I hope that Kids’ Chance and the Ace Foundation can continue their generous contributions and investments in the futures of students like me.

Sincerely,
Britta E. Albright

Dear Kids’ Chance of Pennsylvania,

I would like to thank Kids’ Chance for awarding me a scholarship for the 2006-2007 school year. I am attending Indiana University of PA. I plan to apply for a job on campus I am eligible for the work-study program.

I worked throughout the summer and saved money to assist me with paying for my education. This award will help pay for my books and other expenses. My Father was disabled in 1995 due to an accident while working on a drilling rig.

My brother, who is a junior this year at YSU, has also been awarded the scholarship since he started attending YSU. Receiving this scholarship will ease the financial burden for myself and my family. It will help me in my pursuit of a career in the Criminal Justice/Law system.

In closing, I want to extend my gratitude to your organization.

Sincerely
Jesse H. Riffle

Dear Kid’ Chance of Pennsylvania,

My name is Kevin Gorman, and I am writing to you with gratitude of your most generous scholarship. My family is currently putting five different people through college at different institutions and different levels of education-this donation toward my academic success will be well needed and appreciated on behalf of my family and I. I am a junior at Indiana University of Pennsylvania where I am an English Education major. This money will go toward my school tuition, which will allow me to have more time to put toward my studies and not attempting to raise money for that tuition.

Currently at IUP I have a 3.42 GPA with 55 credits. I also took two summer courses at HACC that will count for six credits toward IUP. Maintaining above a 3.0 GPA is a requirement for all education majors, but my personal GPA to uphold is a 3.4 and make Dean’s list every semester from here on out. I will have a job while attending school, so this scholarship will help. I appreciate organizations like yours that provide opportunities for all students to have a chance at a superior future. Thank you for your kindness toward my education: it will be used for a good cause.

Sincerely,
Kevin Gorman

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Dear Kids' Chance of Pennsylvania, I wanted to thank you for the scholarship I received last year and let you know how my first year at college went. The scholarship I received from Kids' Chance lessened the financial burdens of my freshman year at Duquesne University. I just finished with a 3.5 GPA and am a proud member of Duquesne Women's Rowing team. Joining Duquesne's crew team was a big decision and a huge commitment, but it was a great way to meet new people and represent my college. My first year was challenging, but a blast. I am working towards a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, majoring in Economics and International Business. Now that I have most of the University core classes out of the way, I'm really excited about learning concepts and knowledge that will directly benefit my future career. Again I'd like to thank Kids' Chance for the generous scholarship I received to further my education. It is organizations like yours that make all things possible. Thanks!

-- Brittney Stuck

Letters From 2004 - 2005 Recipients

I would like to thank you for the very generous scholarship awarded to me for the 2004-2005 school year.

In October of 1998, my father, a union carpenter, was involved in a scaffold collapse that left him with permanent damage to both knees. Due to the injury, my father has undergone several knee operations and cannot continue in the construction trade. This has put an enormous burden both emotionally and financially on my family.

Your grant has enabled me to continue my education at Widener University where I am a criminal justice major and a member of the men's lacrosse team. The Kids' Chance of Pennsylvania, scholarship helps me to make the tuition more affordable and eases some of the emotional strain on my parents and me.

I cannot say enough how important the grant is and how much I appreciate and value it.

Sincerely,
Harry Sankey, Jr.

January 18, 2005

Dear Kids' Chance of PA Inc.,

I just wanted to check in to let you know how my school year is progressing. The first semester went well. I am majoring in Criminal Justice, a field that is very challenging, and accumulated a 3.44 GPA. Hopefully next semester will go as well.

Lacrosse practice is due to start. The team has high hopes of having another winning season and will strive to win the M.A.C. Division and complete in the N.C.A.A. tournament in May.

I want to thank you again for your help in making my attending Widener University possible. Your grant really helps my family and me.

Harry F. Sankey

December 2004

Dear Kids' Chance and ACE Foundation,

My name is Dominique D'Angelo. I am from McDonald and attended Canon-McMillan School district. My father was a coal-miner and died when I was ten of a work - related accident. Going through middle school and high school without one of my parents was very difficult, but I overcame the hardship with a goal in mind: my future.

When it came time to apply to college, I was very concerned about tuition. I was ecstatic to have been accepted to my first choice school, California College of the Arts but was intimidated by the costs. Receiving this scholarship reassured me in two ways - one, that me and my mother and could afford the tuition at CCA and two, that everything happens for a reason. The death of my father made me who I am today: a hardworking, passionate, spiritual, down-to-earth person. It was a tragedy, but I was reassured that not only my hard work in my school and extra-curricular activities but my pain and suffering were repaid in full. I am at midterm point and couldn't be happier. My classes are challenging, thoughtful, invigorating, and infinitely enjoyable. I am doing well in all of my classes - I couldn't ask for more right now!

As of right now, I am undeclared as far as majors go but next year I will enter the individualized major program at CCA. I will then work closely with my advisor to chose right classes for the major I will personally design - the defining characteristic for why I chose to attend CCA. I am thinking of combining sculpture, metalworking, and possibly glass. Receiving this scholarship has put both my mother and me at ease. I can concentrate fully on working hard and putting in all the hours necessary to study and complete my art projects. My mother is also more comforted that we will be able to pay for the best education I can receive, which I feel I am receiving at CCA. I cannot thank Kids' Chance and the ACE Foundation enough for the opportunity they gave me by awarding me this scholarship. When first semester grades come out, I guarantee that you will be reassured that you made the right decision.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you very much,
Dominique D'Angelo

December 27, 2004

Because of a back injury he sustained while working in a factory and the numerous health problems that followed after, my father has been unable to work for several years. However, thanks to the generosity of Kids' Chance of PA and the ACE Foundation, I have been able to have a successful, enjoyable college experience thus far. Now that I've had some time to recover from a rigorous semester's worth of papers, exams, and other academic duties, I thought I would take a moment to share what I was up to during the fall 2004 semester at Lock Haven University.

I am currently a junior at LHU. This past semester, I decided to challenge myself academically by taking on 18 credits, rather than my usual 15. The majority of the classes I was enrolled in were English courses that tied in to my major of Secondary Education with a concentration in English. Although the extra class and additional work made for an extremely busy and often stressful semester, I was able to do very well in all my classes and earn a 3.9 grade point average overall.

On top of my academic responsibilities, I remained an active member of the LHU honors program. To fulfill my requirements for the program, I took part in an online creative writing group and a weekly forum dedicated to discussing international issues and increasing political, economic, and global awareness. I also turned my work on the university's literary journal, The Crucible, into an augmentation project for which I received honors credit.

As a Crucible editor, I was responsible for collecting poetry and short story submissions from LHU's student writers. Once the deadline for submissions had passed, my fellow editors and I, with the help of our staff, read each submission and decided which pieces would be included in this year's journal. After the selection process was complete, we collaborated with the designers to set up the layout of the journal and choose what graphics and black and white photos to include. The extensive editing and publication of The Crucible will not take place until the spring semester, but so far working on the journal has been one of the greatest learning experiences of my college career.

These are just a few of the activities and organizations in which I played a role during my fall semester at Lock Haven. As I stated earlier, it was an extremely busy semester for me, but the benefits of my hard work and experiences will have invaluable effects on my life and career. I owe much of my success to the kindness of Kids' Chance of PA and the ACE Foundation. Thanks to these two outstanding organizations, many students, including myself, are able to reach their full potential and academic success with considerably fewer financial worries. My family and I are immeasurably grateful to those who have given me the chance to make the most of my education. Once again, I thank you, and I look forward to sharing more of my experiences with all of you in the spring.

Sincerely,
Jessica B. Hammond

My dad was fatally injured in a work-related accident. Aside from the pain and stress that my family felt while dealing with his death, we also had to worry about paying for college. At one point, there were four of us attending college. The costs were astronomical. How were we, a single-income family and mother, supposed to support four children throughout college? It seemed impossible.

Kids' Chance has helped reduce our financial burdens and stress tremendously. They always keep my family in mind, and have awarded my sisters and me generous scholarships each year. In the past, I have used the scholarship money to help pay for books and other necessary materials. I have been very grateful to Kids' Chance for their help and support through a very rough time in my life.

This year, the ACE Foundation has provided a grant scholarship to match the award from Kids' Chance. This unexpected award has helped me in a major way. I can't begin to explain how their kindness has allowed me to focus more on my studies and less on the financial responsibilities that arise each year. It helps to think that the ACE Foundation and Kids' Chance care enough to help my family and those in similar situations. The award is being used to help pay for my room and board, books and materials, and the everyday cost of living and attending a large university. Thank you, Kids' Chance and the ACE Foundation, for your unspeakable compassion and benevolence. I hope that one day I am able to repay you.

With Gratitude,
Sarah Speakman

Dear Kids' Chance,

I became eligible for the Kids' Chance Scholarship last spring. My dad was injured at work a few years ago and from his resulting disability, he is unable to work. Money in our household was tight, and I was worried that I wouldn't have enough to go to college. Fortunately, with the help of my Kids' Chance Scholarship I am half way through my first semester of college and with my good grades I'll be able to graduate and have a successful life!

Heather Brannen

I want to whole-heartedly thank Kids' Chance of PA for the scholarship grant I was recently awarded. My Father was hurt in a catastrophic accident at his place of employment in 1984. He has been disabled and unable to be employed since then. Furthermore, because of his situation concerning Workers' Compensation, my chances to attend college were very limited. Then I read and article concerning "Kids' Chance."

My family & I reluctantly obtained all the required materials to apply for assistance from your organization...figuring there wasn't a chance of being awarded anything. Therefore, you can't imagine how excited and proud I was to be chosen for your scholarship award.

I am presently enrolled in the Engineering curriculum at Youngstown State University. Without you help, I may not {probably not} have been able to attend. I now realize I have a chance. Furthermore, I now truly understand the meaning of the word "chance" in the Kids' Chance!

Thanks again. I will try to live up to the Honor and Privilege of the Award presented to me.

Respectfully,
Roy L. Herr, Jr.

Thanks so much for your generous contribution to my student education. It's your foundation with its selfless deeds that gives kids like me a chance for a prominent future. You've given me the inspiration to succeed both at school and life.

Sincerely,
Kevin Gorman

I wish to take this opportunity to thank you for the Kids' Chance of Pennsylvania scholarship Award.

In April of 1993, my dad sustained a serious back injury while at work. He has not been able to work since this time, which has caused economic hardships for my family. Both my older brother, Stephen, and I have benefited from your generosity. Stephen graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the Pennsylvania State University in May 2003. He is employed as a therapist with the Youth Advocate Program, Frackville, PA.

I have maintained a better than a 3.0 GPA during my college years; and this spring semester was named to the Dean's List at Bloomsburg University. I will graduate in May of 2005 with a degree in Elementary Education. I will start a practicum in September in the Berwick, PA School District; and will student teach there in the spring of this year.

Thank you again for all you have done to help my family and myself with the financial burden of a college education.

Sincerely,
Garrett Kurtek

Dear Kids' Chance of PA.,

This is my second year in which I have been chosen for a Kids' Chance Scholarship of $1,000.00. I am in my third year of college at West Virginia Wesleyan. I have been working diligently in my studies to achieve my degree in Sports Medicine. There are obstacles that one has to face and one is never always prepared. But with good decision making, I've overcome them and continue to strive for excellence in my major.

I am in Alpha Sigma Phi fraternity and was elected for the grand marshal position. I am also employed by the college as a RA (resident assistant). I do my clinical hours working with the organized sports on campus, i.e. football, tennis, soccer.

My father was in a motorcycle accident in 1978 on his way to work and sustained serious injuries especially to his right leg. He has encountered many surgeries and complications that have required him to be on permanent disability. Nonetheless, he has remained upbeat and plays an important part in my life.

In closing, I want to thank you for the monetary gift which is greatly appreciated and will help defer some of the cost of my education.

Sincerely yours,
Kevin R. Kear

Dear Kids' Chance of PA.,

I am honored to have been chosen as a recipient of a $1,000.00 scholarship from this organization. The monetary gift is much appreciated and will help decrease the cost of my education at Penn State Altoona campus. I am currently a freshman, in the architectural engineering program, and will strive to work very hard in achieving my goal.

I was eligible for this scholarship because my father had a serious motorcycle accident in 1978 which has left him on permanent disability. He had sustained serious right leg injuries and encountered numerous operations which are still ongoing. Through all this, he remains optimistic and has encouraged me to obtain an education by learning by my mistakes and using my strengths to achieve my goals.

As you all know, the cost of education is exuberant today. I just want to thank you for taking the time to review the application and choosing me as one of the recipients.

Sincerely yours,
Brandon J. Kear

I want to sincerely thank you for the support Kids' Chance of Pennsylvania has given me during my college career. As I begin my senior year, my future is beginning to take shape, and I'm excited about it. Thanks to the support of Kids' Chance, I've been able to enjoy a successful college career that will conclude in May of 2005. I feel lucky and privileged to receive the scholarship, and look forward to graduating. After losing my father in an automobile accident in 1992, my mother and I were left with the support of only each other. My mother has made many sacrifices over the years to give me the opportunity to succeed, and Kids' Chance has helped ease that burden on both of us.

Currently, I'm excited about my future and the experience I'm gaining. This fall, I'm continuing an internship from summer that is allowing me to explore more within my field of computer science. Hopefully, with an excellent education and solid experience, I can transition into the workforce and achieve all my hopes and dreams. It has been anything but an easy road to this point, but I have met the adversity head on and succeeded. My past experiences, academically, professionally, and personally, with surely help me in my future endeavors.

For all of the support Kids' Chance of Pennsylvania has given me, I want to sincerely thank you. I'm sure I echo others' sentiments when I say I'm truly grateful.

Sincerely,
Walter J. Chesla

November 2004

Dear Kids' Chance and ACE Foundation,

I would like to thank you for naming me as an ACE Scholar and express my gratitude for the scholarship I am receiving. This financial assistance has made a huge difference in my educational experience, and really helped me to pursue my academic goals. I've always set high expectations for myself and especially my education, and I was afraid that financial trouble would prevent me from realizing my goals.

The honor of being named a recipient of the scholarship is amazing, and this scholarship really has opened up a world of opportunity for me. With the financial assistance of this scholarship, I was able to accept and attend my first-choice college, Boston University, and pursue my interest in international relations/foreign languages. Boston is an amazing college city, and I am thankful to be able to spend my college years in this thriving cultural city. In addition Boston University is the perfect school for me, with its strong international relations, language, and study abroad opportunities.

Next year, I will be taking advantage of the excellent study abroad programs, spending a semester in Paris, which is one of my biggest dreams. Not only will I be perfecting my French and taking classes with French university students, but I will also be tackling an international relations-related internship, all in the beautiful city of light. However, these opportunities would not be open to me without the help of this scholarship.

I sincerely would like to thank the ACE Foundation for selecting me as a recipient of this scholarship, as it means so much to me and for my academic career. I am honored to have been chosen for this scholarship, and to have this opportunity to pursue my academic dreams.

Thank you,
Elizabeth Wagner

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Letters From 2003 - 2004 Recipients

In April of my sophomore year in high school, tragedy occurred in my family. While my father, who I adore, was working at his sign-repairing job, he fell and was critically injured. My college education seemed to be in jeopardy now because of the costs for the medical bills.

I am now a freshman attending Dickinson College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. I am majoring in Biology and hope to continue on to medical school. It was through the scholarship from Kids' Chance that I would have any chance to do any of these possible things. It has tremendously helped both financially and mentally, knowing things will be ok. I would like to become a practicing physician so that I may one day help someone just like the committee has helped me.
-- Danny (Daniel) DeGrazia (ACE INA Kids' Chance Scholar)

I want to first say THANK YOU for giving me money toward my college education at Mansfield University in Pennsylvania. I am on the football team-I go to practice everyday and get beat up but enjoy it very much. This past semester I received a 2.0 which for me is pretty good--hopefully next semester I will do better. I'm majoring in Environmental Science and I'm hoping to do some work with water checking and fisheries. I enjoy the outdoors and love to be busy.

Thanks again and I hope you can continue helping me with my education. -- Shane R. Hesser

I became eligible for a Kids' Chance scholarship because my father suffered a spinal cord injury at work in 2002. He worked construction and fell off of the scaffolding. Because of the fall, he fractured C-3 of his spinal cord and crushed T-4 and T-5 of his spinal cord. He is now a quadriplegic with no movement from the mid-chest down and has limited movement of his arms and hands. He needs constant care and because of this my mother no longer works.

This scholarship will help me pursue my dreams of going to college and majoring in communication. Thanks to the scholarship I will be more focused on my grades. I am grateful that you choose me to be a Kids' Chance ACE INA Scholar.
-- Mary Beth Dipko, (ACE INA Kids' Chance Scholar), Portage, PA

I lost my father in a logging accident in 1994. I am the oldest of three children. I am starting my freshman year in college at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, pursuing a career in nursing. I am honored to receive this Kids' Chance scholarship to help me achieve my goal of becoming a nurse. I can only hope that this scholarship is available to other students that have also suffered the death of a parent, helping them know there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Thank you so much for making it possible for me to continue my education and build a future. -- Chelsey Padasak, Johnsonburg, PA

I am truly grateful for receiving this award and I assure you it will be used in good faith toward my education. My father is presently on disability and with the rising cost of college tuition, the scholarship received will help defer some of my educational costs. By receiving this award, I am able to continue my studies at West Virginia Wesleyan College and pursue my goal in Sports Medicine.

Again, thank you -- Kevin R. Kear, Greensburg, PA

My father has not worked in ten years. He had an accident at work - a channel hit him in the back of the neck. Immediately he started complaining of headaches, numbness in his hands and arms, and severe neck pain. The doctor said he had ruptured discs in his neck and would not be able to work again unless on light duty. My father has had several surgeries that have proven to be unsuccessful.

This scholarship will allow me to attend another year of college. This means one step closer to reaching my dream of becoming a veterinarian. -- Deanna Staul, Sharpsville, PA

I'm a sophomore at Muhlenberg College; a computer science major. I have to put a lot of time into studying for computer science. It's like learning another language, albeit a computer language....All in all, I believe college is helping me grow into a person who can contribute something to the world. It's not easy being a college student in this day and age, but Kids' Chance has helped make it easier for me. With sky rocketing tuition costs, and expensive books, I not only have to worry about getting the best grades I can, but I also have to worry about paying for those grades....Thanks to Kids' Chance, I can worry about studying more, and stop worrying about where I'm going to get the money to pay for my education.
-- Walter J. Chesla, Shenandoah Heights, PA

September 22, 2003

Thank you very much for your recent scholarship award. I greatly appreciate Kids' Chance kindness and generosity in helping with my college expenses. I am currently a junior at Bloomsburg University majoring in education.

Thank you again. -- Garret Kurtek, Pottsville, PA

About four years ago, my father had a serious work injury that required a knee replacement. With my father out of work and two out of five siblings going to college this year, we knew we would financially struggle to come up with the tuition money. My brother applied as well, and we are now both proud recipients of the Kids' Chance scholarship. It will immensely help with our college costs and make our financial struggles a lot easier. We are truly thankful that you have chosen us, and hope that many other families like us will take advantage of your wonderful program.
-- Catherine Donnelly, Philadelphia, PA

October 2003

I'm writing this thank you in appreciation for your generous and thoughtful donation which will benefit my funding for school. It was a kind-hearted deed, which I have greatly acknowledged. Once again, thank you and God bless...
-- Patrick Kennedy Gorman, Mechanicsburg, PA

September 2003

I became eligible for the Kids' Chance scholarship because of my dad's disability. He hurt his back at work when I was little. I also think I was considered because of my academic achievements and my extracurricular activities. This scholarship is a blessing to me because college is so expensive and I don't have to worry about paying the grant back after I graduate. It's hard because I have to support myself through college not only by working but also by trying to pay off some of my student loans. Without this scholarship it would have been difficult for me to further my education.

I am currently a freshman at Wilkes University, majoring in English and Secondary Education. I participate on the newspaper staff and student government, and I volunteer for Big Brother & Big Sister. College has been a new adjustment for me, but I love it!

Thank you very much.

Sincerely -- Alicia Demer, Susquehanna, PA

September 2003

I was eligible for the Kids' Chance scholarship due to the tragic death of my father in 1996 following a work-related accident. Our family was left struggling after my father's death, as my mother is not physically able to work. Despite the hardships, I continued to work hard in school and focus my heart on my education, setting high goals for myself. I will be attending my first year of college at Boston University, and plan to double major in international relations and French. My family cannot afford the expensive costs of a college education, and I am extremely grateful to have been chosen to receive this scholarship, since it will enable me to pursue the higher education that I so desire.
-- Elizabeth Wagner (ACE INA Kids' Chance Scholar) Philadelphia, PA

June 2004

Last year, I was chosen as ACE INA Kids' Chance Scholar. Thanks to the generosity of these two organizations, the 2003-2004 academic year was not only the most memorable time of my life, it was also the most successful and rewarding part of my college career thus far.

During the fall 2003 semester, I took advantage of the international exchange program offered by my school, Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania. As a future high school English teacher, I understand that it is not only important for me to be well read; I must also be comfortable with cultural diversity and able to function in unfamiliar situations. By spending three months living and studying in Dublin, Ireland, I was able to interact with people from all over the world while increasing my subject knowledge by taking courses in Shakespeare, British Novel, Poetic Criticism, and 20th Century Irish Literature. In my free time, I was able to travel around Ireland and take a trip to England. During my travels, I experienced firsthand sites of both cultural and scholarly significance (for example, I was able to fulfill my lifelong dream of visiting Salisbury, England, the home of the legendary Stonehenge). Although my time abroad was full of personal and academic challenges, I was able to gain valuable world experience, form countless memories, and earn a 4.0 grade point average. If not for the aid of ACE INA and Kids' Chance, this beneficial step toward bettering myself and reaching my career goals might not have been possible.

Shortly after I returned from Ireland, the spring 2004 semester began. As a sophomore in the Lock Haven University secondary education program, the time to officially begin my training as a future educator had arrived. In order to produce dedicated and effective teachers and meet the high standards required by the state of Pennsylvania, the LHU secondary education program involves a great deal of time and hard work. Along with enrolling in courses in teaching methods, educational media, and classroom management, I was required to spend approximately sixty hours in various high school classrooms observing and assisting the teachers as well as writing and teaching my own lesson plans. In addition, I was also enrolled in three general education courses and actively involved in the LHU English Club and the Honors Program. In spite of my challenging and sometimes frustrating schedule, I enjoyed my classes and the time I spent in the high schools.

My desire and determination for becoming a teacher increased as I became more comfortable in front of a classroom and more confident in my abilities as both a student and a teacher-in-training. By the end of the semester, I had gained a considerable amount of crucial experiences and knowledge, earned another 4.0 GPA, and I was one step closer to becoming a successful English teacher, thanks once again to the generosity of ACE INA and Kids' Chance.

In conclusion, I thought I would mention, as a somewhat humorous and rather symbolic note, that I wrote the rough draft of this letter on a piece of paper from a scrap bin in the envelope factory where I am working this summer. As many of my co-workers who work there full time are fond of telling me, working at the factory will inspire me to work even harder when I am at school, just so I won't have to return to the factory once I graduate. Although factory work is as noble and necessary as any other career, it is not the way I plan to spend my life. Thanks to Kids' Chance of PA and ACE INA, I was able to make the most of the past academic year and pursue my goal of becoming a high school teacher to the fullest. As I have said before, expressing the full extent of my gratitude toward the organizations that have made my success possible is extremely difficult; however, I hope that by sharing the events of the past year I was able to show what a tremendous impact Kids' Chance of PA and ACE INA have had on my life.

Once again, thank you.

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August 28, 2003

Mr. Case,

I found out about the Kids' Chance scholarship from my father's lawyer. My father suffers from diabetes, and he has had two heart surgeries (including a triple bypass) and 3 back operations. Needless to say, my father has been unable to work for several years. He receives disability compensation, and we are able to get by with that money and the money from my mother's job; however, paying for college has been a challenge. Although we do not make enough money to cover my college expenses, I have often been turned down for grants and scholarships because my family does not display enough need. Therefore, when I received the letter from Kids' Chance my parents and I were extremely happy and grateful.

The letter I received said that, along with financial need, the chosen scholars also displayed "exceptional academic potential." During my senior year in high school I was the president of the National Honors Society and I graduated as the valedictorian of my class. Last year was my first year of college and I was enrolled in the honors program at Lock Haven University. I took four honors classes and participated in numerous honors activities along with my regular classes. I had a challenging schedule that required a lot of hard work, but I managed to end the academic year with a 3.9 grade point average.

It is difficult to explain just how grateful I am to receive this scholarship. The money will pay for a large portion of my tuition and expenses and has thus brought me a lot of peace of mind. Along with the present assistance the scholarship will offer, it will also influence my academic and professional future. I am currently a Secondary Education major with a concentration in English and this grant will help me achieve my goal of becoming a knowledgeable and experienced educator.

Thank you so much.
Jessica B. Hammond, (ACE INA Kids' Chance Scholar) Lock Haven, PA

Updates from Scholarship Recipients
2002 - 2003

Cecilia Diefenderfer
Cecelia is a junior at Kings College majoring in Biological Science. She is currently preparing to take her MCATS for medical school and is interested in pursuing OB/GYN or Emergency Medicine. A member of the Pre-Med Honors Society and a member of Chi Alpha Epsilon, the National Honors Society for her high level of academic achievement at Kings College, she is a student tutor for advanced science courses. Cecelia has also become a certified E.M.T. and works for a local ambulance company, is an R.A. in her dorm and this past winter was a ski instructor at Montage Mountain.

Robert Diefenderfer
Robert graduated in May from Wilkes University with a B.S. degree in Computer Information Systems with a minor in Business. A member of the Honor's Society, Robert has worked in a co-op placement the last two summers at PP&L. He is currently seeking a job related to IT software and web design/networks. Robert has been active with the baseball team at Wilkes and is now a member of the Golf Society. Click here for Robert's letter to Kids' Chance.

Tom Diefenderfer (former recipient)
Tom has completed his studies at Dickinson College and is employed in a very lucrative career at Lutron Electronics, Inc. He is getting married in May 2003. Kathleen Gorman (former recipient) Kathleen graduated from Bloomsburg University and is currently working in two Reading area school districts with adolescents and pre-adolescents who have social, emotional and behavioral difficulties. She has been offered 2 other positions with better pay and benefits, but she is committed to continuing to work with the kids with whom she has made a bond.

Maggie Gorman
Maggie is a junior at Almira College, majoring in psychology with a minor in art therapy. She is already looking into graduate programs in Clinical Psychology and Art Therapy. With a cumulative G.P.A. of 3.8, Maggie was named to the National Dean's list. This summer, in addition to a psychology internship, Maggie will be one of 10 students going to Paris, France for a special 6-week course in art therapy. She plays third base for the college softball team.

Andrea McClellan
I have been awarded Kids' Chance Scholarship in both 2001 and 2002. I am currently a sophomore attending Slippery Rock University in Slippery Rock, PA and am majoring in music therapy. In the past year at Slippery Rock University I have been accepted into the Honors Program for the school year 2003-2004. I also attained Dean's List in the Fall Semester of 2002 with a GPA of 4.0. Some of my musical highlights include being chosen as a participant in the Pennsylvania Intercollegiate Band, which was held at Mansfield University, February 28 through March 2, 2003. I have also participated in Marching Band and Wind Ensemble and have accompanied a fellow student during her recital. I recently returned from attending the Mid-Atlantic Music Therapy Conference, which I found to be a very enlightening experience. I am a member of Sigma Alpha Iota, a professional women's music fraternity. I am also a member of Phi Sigma Sigma, a social sorority, and have recently been elected Scholarship and Alumni Chair.

Christopher McClellan
I graduated this year from Penn State with a major in biochemistry and molecular biology. I have accumulated a 3.61 G.P.A. over my four years at the university, and I am also a member of the Golden Key Honor Society and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. I plan to attend the University of Maryland to seek a doctoral degree in cell biology and molecular genetics. During my senior year, I performed undergraduate research into the mechanism of why cells kill themselves and what happens when that process goes wrong, such as in cancer. Click here for Chris' letter to Kids' Chance.

Harry Sankey
I am currently a freshman at Widener University located in Chester, PA. My declared major is pre-physical therapy. So far I find the program very challenging. I am also a member of the men's varsity lacrosse team and at this time, we are ranked number twenty-one among division three schools in the nation.

Amanda Speakman
I graduated this May from the University of Pittsburgh. My classes this year ranged from Business Law and Auditing to Introduction to Performance, and I am also involved in several extracurricular activities. I serve as Treasurer of the international academic honors fraternity, Beta Alpha Psi, for accounting, finance, and information systems' majors and I am a student affiliate of the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA). This summer, I plan to sit for the CPA exam as I have accepted a position with a Big Four firm beginning this fall. Click here for Amanda's letter to Kids' Chance.

Julie Speakman
I am currently a junior attending the University of Pittsburgh. I am pursuing a double major in the fields of biology and psychology. This year has been a wonderful yet challenging one for me. Right now I am on a voyage of discovery around the world on the Semester At Sea program. Myself and approximately 700 other students have been on a ship for three months taking various classes and studying the different peoples and cultures of countries such as Cuba, Brazil, South Africa, Tanzania, India, Japan, and South Korea. So far it has been an amazing experience and is teaching more than I could ever learn from a book.

In the fall semester I will return to my regular classes at Pitt. In particular, some courses that I have taken that have proven difficult, yet very rewarding are Organic Chemistry 1 and 2, Biochemistry, and Population Biology. Also, some classes I am enrolled in on Semester At Sea, including Animal Behavior and Global Ecology are extremely enjoyable. These classes provide an opportunity to study the concepts of each class in real context all over the world.

Aside from taking class, I am involved in some extracurricular activities. While in Pittsburgh, I volunteer in the Child Life Department at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. On top of this, I am a teaching assistant and tutor for an Organic Chemistry 1 class. On Semester At Sea, I am involved in Students of Service and two fitness challenges. I also participate in the Vicarious Voyage program where I am responsible for communicating with middle school students throughout the trip and teaching them what I have learned on my journey through each country.

This summer I will be applying to medical school in hopes of starting as a student next fall. In the future, I hope to graduate medical school and go on to become a pediatrician.

Sarah Speakman
My sophomore year at the University of Pittsburgh presented me with many questions. I started at Pitt in the School of Business, and I had planned on majoring in accounting. However, that might change. This year, I was able to talk to some people in the Marketing Club and it caught my interest. I am already a part of the Women in Business Club and the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA), and the Pitt Tennis Club. Next semester, I plan on joining the Marketing Club to help me select my major. But how do I decide?? Hopefully by broadening my perspective and joining a few more organizations, I will be able to choose.

The assistance we receive from Kids' Chance helps relieve some of the financial stress of attending college, despite my indecisiveness. I'd like to thank Kids' Chance for helping our family.

Shannon Speakman
I am currently a sophomore at the University of Pittsburgh. I am enrolled in mostly business classes, from the tough Managing in Complex Environments and Quantitative Methods to the simpler Environmental Geology. As of now, I intend to major in marketing and become a fashion retailer buyer. Although this changes often, I think I may have found what I really would enjoy doing in the future. This year has not only been one of great achievements, but also of great challenges. However, I would not trade it for anything. This is exactly where I want to be at this point in my life.

I would like to personally thank Kids' Chance for their continuing support and for the opportunity to continue my education. Thank you again for supporting our family!

Letters from Graduating Seniors
May 2003

Looking back on an instance of life and taking something positive from that can define reflection. As the moment of graduation approaches the use of reflection allows one to realize their accomplishments. For the past four years, at Wilkes University, I have taken the time to put a value on my education. Some may confuse the value to be the tuition paid, but the true value comes from what one has learned during their tenure at school.

On a personal level I have seen myself grow in both body and mind. This growth has come via the classroom and through sports. On the sports field I have valued the roles of leadership, endured the trait of perseverance, and overall achieved success in all situations that have faced me. The classroom is where I have honed the skills that I will be using to achieve success. Wilkes University has taught me the necessary traits needed to cohesively work with others and achieve a common goal. The overall personal success that I have been able to reach is credited to the opportunities that many have provided me. The scholarship awarded to me by Kids' Chance has been instrumental and important in allowing me to complete my four years of college, overcome a loss, and become the successful graduate that I will become on May 17, 2003. THANK YOU!

-- Robert Diefenderfer

I am a graduating senior at the University of Pittsburgh. As a senior accounting major, this year has been both extremely exciting and challenging for both my family and me. Upon graduation I plan to sit for the CPA exam as I have accepted a position with a Big Four firm, beginning this fall.

As my undergraduate college career comes to a close, it is amazing to think of all the people who have helped along the way. With my mom as the only parent in the household, and with four daughters in college at the same time, any assistance provided to us is more than greatly appreciated. I would like to thank Kids' Chance for helping my family!

-- Amanda Speakman

Four years ago, when I was getting ready to start college at Penn State, I was looking for a way to pay for my education. Unfortunately, my father was the victim of a back injury at his workplace. He was eventually forced to take disability retirement, much earlier than was expected. This circumstance left our family with little money to pay for a college education. However, with the Kids' Chance Scholarship, I was able to attend college. This scholarship allowed me to concentrate more on studying than working a job and to perform research in a laboratory.

I graduate this year from Penn State with a major in biochemistry and molecular biology. I plan on attending the University of Maryland to seek a doctoral degree in cell biology and molecular genetics. This year, I have performed undergraduate research into the mechanism of why cells kill themselves and what happens when that process goes wrong, such as in cancer.

All of this may have not been possible, were it not for the aid given by the Kids' Chance Scholarship. This scholarship has regularly paid for a significant percentage of my tuition and fees. If it had not been for this scholarship, I would probably have had to work a job during the school year instead of just during vacations, leaving less time to study. Therefore, it is easy to say that the Kids' Chance Scholarship has allowed me to have the success I currently enjoy.

-- Chris McClellan

Letters from Parents

I would like to thank Kids' Chance for the scholarships given to my children Thomas, Robert and Cecilia. With the help of Kids' Chance, Tom has completed his studies at Dickinson College and is employed in a very lucrative career at Lutron Electronics, Inc. Robert is a senior at Wilkes University and will be graduating with a B.S. degree in Computer Information Systems with a minor in Business. Cecilia is a junior at Kings College majoring in Biological Science looking to continue her education in medical school in hopes of becoming an OB/GYN physician.

Kids' Chance has helped my children achieve their life pursuits and fulfill my dreams of their receiving a college education, which after the death of my husband/their father, I was not sure was possible. The Kids' Chance scholarships....have tremendously defrayed the expensive education costs. With the generosity of Kids Chance and the grace of God, my children have been given the opportunity to have a chance at successful careers.

-- Mrs. Cecilia Diefenderfer
(Husband fatally injured in a work related accident)

I have four daughters who have had the good fortune of receiving Kids' Chance scholarships. All four attend the University of Pittsburgh, main campus. My oldest will graduate this year, with an accounting degree. My second oldest is a junior who is taking pre-med to become a pediatrician. My third and fourth are twins in their sophomore year. One is also majoring in accounting, the other in business.

Kids' Chance has played an important role in their education. They've helped relieve some of the stress of paying for a higher education, allowing them to focus more on their studies. The girls were so excited this year to once again have Kids' Chance on their side. They used the monies allotted to them to purchase their books and aids for their studies. We hope in the future to contribute to Kids' Chance, enabling us to help ease the financial burden of future needy students.

-- Mrs. Rosalind Speakman
(Husband fatally injured in a work related accident)

We look forward to continuing to hear from Kids' Chance scholarship recipients! Please contact us with your letters, updates and digital photos fax to: (610) 970-7520, or mail to: Kids' Chance of Pennsylvania, P.O. Box 543, Pottstown, PA 19464

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