Vivian Winston Scholarship
Awarding funds to local mothers juggling the cost of tuition and childcare.
Scholars are selected on the basis of academic merit and exemplary character with preference given to students demonstrating financial need. The value of the award is $1,500 to $4,000.
About the Scholarship
A scholarship fund was established in 2006 to honor WHWF Co-Founder, Vivian Winston. Winston focused on social justice work, long before it was trendy. She was an early advocate for women and children, a member of Spokane’s chapter of the League of Women Voters from its inception in 1948, as well as the first woman president of Spokane’s United Way in 1969.
Eligibility
To qualify for the Vivian Winston Scholarship, the student must meet the following criteria:
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Female student at Eastern Washington University, Gonzaga University, Washington State University-Spokane, Whitworth University, Spokane Falls Community College, Spokane Community College, or a trade/certificate program
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Pursuing an Associate Degree, Bachelor's Degree or special certification (including trade or technical)
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Resident of Spokane County while attending school
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Have dependent child(ren) requiring child care during the 2023-24 school year
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Available to attend, as a guest, the Women Helping Women Fund Spring Fundraiser on May 16, 2023 from 3:30PM - 5:00PM at the Spokane Convention Center.
Application and Award Timeline
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The application is open now through March 17, 2023. APPLY HERE.
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Finalists will be notified by April 3, 2023 and asked to participate in an interview on April 10th or 11th in 2023.
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Recipients will be notified by April 21, 2023.
Application Tips
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Follow directions. If you have any questions, reach out to our office at 509.328.8285 (call or text) or info@whwfspokane.org. Our office staff are happy to assist.
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Make sure your essay responses are complete and include detail. We want to get to know you!
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Highlight your strengths, passions and successes.
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Read through the entire application before writing answers.
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Ask a family member, teacher or counselor to review your application for errors.
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Make sure to return all information by the deadline.
Meet the 2022-23 Scholars
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Jessica
Spokane Community College
"I am a single mom to five amazing kids. I have spent the last 17 years working with foster children in emergent situations. Because of that, I have gotten to see how a little bit of hope can transform lives. I am currently pursuing my degree to become a counselor for women and children who have experienced trauma. As someone who has had to overcome a lot of obstacles, I look forward to serving the people in our community who might otherwise go unheard."
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Nycolle
Spokane Community College
"As a mom with kids with special needs I never imagined being able to continue my education. My children are a part of what keeps me going and knowing that what I am doing is going to be beneficial for us. Being able to continue my education I hope that it allows my children and others around me to know that anything is possible."
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Kelli
Eastern Washington University
"I am a single mom to my two beautiful children. In 2021, I began working on my bachelor's in social work at EWU. Life is beautiful and challenging all at the same time. During some of life's curveballs I have been on the receiving end of our social programs, and I am thankful for the help they provided for my family. I look forward to graduation and being able to give back. No matter what comes my way, I want to be the best mother and example of a strong woman to my children."
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Katrina
Spokane Community College
"As an only child raised by a single father with substance abuse issues, I'm no stranger to life's problems. This has taught me how to be resilient, solve problems, and overcome whatever life throws my way. I am going to school to get my bachelor's degree in social work so I can help people in our community live better lives."