WINDER, Ga. – Peach State FCU has committed to donating $7,500 to students participating in Barrow County School System’s REACH Scholarship Program over the next five years. The program will receive $1,500 each year through 2026 from the credit union.
REACH Georgia is a mentorship and scholarship program that provides students with academic, social, and financial support to graduate from high school and attend college. To be eligible for the REACH Georgia Program, a student must currently be a rising 8th grader at an eligible Georgia school in a participating district; demonstrate financial need; have proven legal status in the United States (U.S. Citizen or legal resident); have good attendance and behavior; have grade reports reflecting at least a 2.5 cumulative grade point average in core courses; have a crime and drug-free record; have demonstrated the support of a parent, legal guardian, or other caring adult.
The Barrow County School System REACH Georgia Scholarship Program has graduated two classes of REACH Scholars, the credit union said. They are enrolled in Georgia Gwinnett College, the University of North Georgia, Georgia Southern University, and Lanier Technical College. During the 2022 school year, the Barrow County community will have 22 REACH Scholars in grades eight through 12. Community members serve on interview teams to choose each year’s Scholars. They also serve as mentors and scholarship sponsors. The Scholarship is funded in part by the state legislature, the REACH Georgia Foundation, and by local donors like Peach State.
“Our credit union was founded by educators 60 years ago this year. We honor that foundation through our continued support of education throughout our service area,” said Peach State’s president/CEO, Marshall Boutwell. “We’re excited to help Barrow County students achieve educational success through this program. “
Below, from left: Sherri Perry, REACH GA coordinator for Barrow County School System, with Develon Davis and Peggy Kilgroe, business development representatives for Peach State FCU