Committee commits up to $425 per-student scholarships to faith-based recovery program

The Colby County disbursement committee voted Aug. 26 to provide scholarship support to 180 Degrees Ministry for a 12-week, faith-centered recovery class, approving up to $425 per student and capping the scholarship at 10 students per class. The decision followed a detailed presentation about program structure, frequency and costs; the presenter described a typical delivery as weekly one-hour sessions over 12 weeks and said training materials cost "$300" per participant.

Committee members debated whether awards should be paid upfront or upon program completion. Several members argued the $300 materials cost and the need to secure facilities require some upfront outlay; others raised the risk of attrition and noted the committee could recoup or adjust future funding depending on completion rates. The committee approved the scholarship commitment by voice vote and asked providers to email the chairman confirming participants and start dates so the board can schedule the disbursement under the previously authorized line items.