Sikh Youth Association donates $7,000; Southwest Ranches awards a record 27 scholarships

Representatives of the Sikh Youth Association of South Florida presented a $7,000 donation to the Town Scholarship Fund during Wednesday—vening—ouncil proceedings, and added $500 to the town's birthday celebration account.

"Thanks to the support of this amazing town and its residents, we're proud to present a donation of $7,000 to the Town Scholarship Fund," the association's representative said, noting the group lso contributed $500 for the anniversary celebration.

Shortly after, Jennifer Montgomery, chair of the Scholarship and Education Advisory Board, told the council this year the board awarded a record 27 scholarships, each for $1,850. Montgomery said the program requires scholarship recipients to complete 40 hours of volunteer service in town events such as the 5K, the barn dance and the birthday celebration.

"This scholarship comes to these kids because they invest back in their community," Montgomery said, adding the board will introduce a new recognition next year for the student who completes the most volunteer hours. She encouraged students to begin volunteering early.

Why it matters: The town's scholarship program is funded largely through local events and donations; the Sikh Youth Association's gift and the breadth of scholarships reflect strong local volunteer engagement and give more students financial support for college.

What comes next: Montgomery said scholarship recipients and donors would take photos with the ceremonial check after the meeting. The board will add an additional scholarship award for volunteer hours in the coming year.