The scholarship delivers on the vision of kids with special needs living their best lives.

This opportunity helps remarkable young people who have been clients of an EKO member agency to attend college, university or pursue their chosen career training program. In addition to empowering Ontario youth, EKO hopes to decrease the unemployment bias for this demographic.

“We believe nothing should stand in the way of promising scholars pursuing their higher education and career goals,” says Jennifer Churchill, EKO CEO. “We are honoured to recognize students with disabilities who have shown determination, self-advocacy, academic success and a commitment to their community, as they embark on this next phase of their lives.”

The EKO Scholarship motivates and supports promising youth who have benefitted from the services and supports offered by one of Ontario’s 21 Children’s Treatment Centres, and plan to attend a college, university or career training program. Each student receive $2,000 to help them achieve their goals. Completed applications for the EKO Scholarship will be accepted online through May 15, 2020.

Since the program launched in 2011 Empowered Kids Ontario has recognized the accomplishments of almost 50 students, including two CTN recipients in 2016.

This year as many as five awards of up to $2,000 are available to qualifying students. Applicants must have been a client of an Ontario Children’s Treatment Centre. Selection criteria includes demonstrated leadership in school and/or in their community, a personal statement, and recommendations by school and community mentors.

For more information and to apply, click here. EKO Scholars announced on June 10, 2020.