HOUSTON — May 30, 2019 — The Ascend Cares Foundation announced today it has awarded $166,500 this year as part of its scholarship program for children of employees of Ascend Performance Materials.
Ascend Cares, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization funded and led by Ascend employees, was founded in 2011 to support Ascend families in their times of need, provide community engagement opportunities and facilitate community leadership. The scholarship program, now in its fifth year, was launched to invest in Ascend families and their students’ education.
This year, Ascend Cares awarded 103 scholarships to students in Alabama, Florida, South Carolina and Texas. Students will be attending trade schools, colleges and universities. Winners were selected based on their outstanding community service and strong academic achievements.
“We are very proud to be able to support this group of accomplished young leaders as they pursue higher education,” said Phil McDivitt, Ascend’s president and CEO. “I am impressed with their level of commitment to their communities, and I am confident they each have the potential to change the world.”
Rachell Gold, executive director of the Ascend Cares Foundation, received many scholarship applications that included each student’s volunteering efforts.
“The applicant pool has grown each year since the program was launched,” said Gold. “Last year we awarded $149,000 in scholarships. This year we are delighted to increase our investments in students who are committed to making a difference in their communities.”
Six top scholarship recipients were awarded Ascend Cares Community Impact Grants for $500. The foundation regularly offers these grants to Ascend employees to support hands-on involvement with local organizations. Student winners will use the grant toward their own personal project in their communities.
The Ascend Cares Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2011 and is managed by team members of Ascend Performance Materials. It is financed through a combination of individual contributions and matching company funds. The foundation partners with other nonprofits serving the communities where Ascend Performance Materials employees live and work. Ascend Cares is focused on serving and supporting the areas of education, healthcare, children, families and the military through charitable giving and volunteering.
May 30, 2019
Source: The Ascend Cares Foundation
