Inspired Path Forward Scholarship now open for Williamsburg Houses residents
Local Scholarship Program Changing Lives for Residents
Inspired Path Forward Scholarship now open for Williamsburg Houses residents
By GREENLINE
In 2023, the development team behind the newly renovated Williamsburg Houses in Brooklyn created the Inspired Path Forward Scholarship to bolster educational and vocational opportunities for its residents. Each year, up to 15 students will be awarded $5,000 towards their education, and these scholarships are available exclusively to residents at Williamsburg Houses of all ages who are looking to pursue secondary education. The award winnings can be used for a wide range of education-related expenses, including tuition, books, room and board, school supplies, and more.
As of February 3rd, the 2025 scholarship is now open! Residents are encouraged to apply before the April 22nd deadline here: https://learnmore.scholarsapply.org/inspired/.
“The scholarship allows me to just go about my academics in a stress-free way, where I don’t have to worry about not paying my bills on time,” said Elliott, Williamsburg Houses Resident and 2024 Inspired Path Forward Scholarship Recipient. “When I called my mom, she started crying. It’s going to be very helpful. It was really exciting when I got it, like I couldn’t even believe it.”
Starting in the ninth grade, students can apply for the scholarship, with the $5,000 being awarded upon graduation. Students have the option to reapply each year and accumulate funds until graduation. The scholarship program’s early eligibility enables students to start planning for their educational future and motivates them to finish high school. This forward-thinking approach encourages students to set ambitious academic and career goals. Nontraditional students who have graduated high school or completed their GED are also encouraged to apply, especially those interested in trade schools and vocational programs for a career change.
The scholarship is funded by RDC Development, a professional partnership between MDG Design & Construction and Wavecrest Management, the developer and manager of Williamsburg Houses respectively. In collaboration with incredible partners at St. Nicks Alliance, the team has taken meaningful steps to improve the quality of life for residents during the renovation process. This scholarship is a continued extension of RDC’s commitment to supporting the community.
“Thank you so much, not just for the scholarship itself, but [for] its flexibility. I love that we’re trying to reach everyone regardless of who they are, where they are in their lives, or what their aspirations are,” said Brianny, Williamsburg Houses Resident, as well as both a 2023 and 2024 Inspired Path Forward Scholarship Recipient.
Another important factor that makes the Inspired Path Forward Scholarship unique is its inclusion of nontraditional students. Centering the understanding that many Williamsburg Houses residents may not have had the opportunity to pursue higher education directly after high school, the scholarship hopes to support individuals interested in trade schools and vocational programs, acknowledging the importance of diverse career paths.
“I would say that I was fortunate enough. I am very thankful, because it helps a lot, especially with my first year of college. I’m definitely grateful for that,” said Araya, Williamsburg Houses Resident and 2024 Inspired Path Forward Scholarship Recipient. “Thank you for giving me a chance because I definitely needed some sort of miracle.”
Williamsburg Houses encourages eligible students to submit their applications before the April 22nd deadline.
Detailed information and application forms can be obtained from St. Nicks Alliance’s office at 178 Bushwick Avenue, the Williamsburg Houses management office at 176 Maujer Street, or the scholarship’s official website: https://learnmore.scholarsapply.org/inspired/.
Also, make sure to check out the free coffee and donuts scholarship workshop on Saturday, March 1st, from 10:00am-2:00pm at St. Nicks Alliance’s office, and keep an eye out for another event in early April.
By investing in the education of its residents, Williamsburg Houses takes pride in its role shaping their futures. As the scholarship program enters its third year, the development remains dedicated to creating pathways toward success, fostering a more educated, skilled, and vibrant community for generations to come.
“Your belief in my potential has inspired me to work even harder and to make the most of every opportunity that comes my way,” said Briana, Williamsburg Houses Resident and 2024 Inspired Path Forward Scholarship Recipient. “The financial assistance provided by this scholarship will alleviate a significant burden, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on financial concerns. It is a tremendous relief and a source of great motivation as I pursue my academic and professional goals.”
The Greenline 