By Cathy Lavin, HWC For The Mountain Times
If you haven’t already marked your calendars for the Hoodland Women’s Club (HWC) major annual fundraiser, it’s time to do so. The 21st golf “Scramble for Scholarships” will take place this year on June 26 at the Mt. Hood Oregon Resort. That’s earlier than in past years partly to avoid conflicts with events crammed into the Mountain community’s short, busy summer and perhaps avoid excessive August heat. There are multiple ways community members can support the scramble, including golfing and providing sponsorships, basket and auction contributions and outright donations.
Although proceeds from the tournament also support other aspects of HWC’s Community Fund, its primary focus is to fund scholarships for Hoodland residents and those with ties to the community. Historically, HWC has provided $2,500 scholarships to four graduating seniors from the Hoodland area.
This year will feature some changes, however. The biggest of these is an additional scholarship of up to $500 for professional development. This scholarship is intended for adults who want to improve their knowledge and skills. To be eligible, applicants must live within HWC boundaries (Alder Creek to Government Camp), show financial need and submit a completed application (available on the HWC website – https://hoodlandwomensclub.org – by August 31. Funds may be used for such things as continuing education, conference attendance and purchase of textbooks or workbooks. While the maximum amount for each scholarship is $500, more than one scholarship may be awarded to an individual.
Criteria for high school scholarships have been updated for 2025 as well. While preference will be given to students living within the HWC boundaries, the Club will also consider highly qualified applicants with strong ties to the HWC area. While scholarships previously have been limited to graduating seniors, older students will qualify this year as well. This enables students who choose not to attend college directly following graduation to apply when they are ready to begin school. The students will have up to 24 months to use the funds from the time scholarships are awarded. Scholarships can be used not only for college, but for vocational school (such as beauty school or technical training). Potential recipients can contact Rhana Mather at Sandy High School for additional information.
Another way local residents can support HWC’s Community Fund is by purchasing flower baskets. The $30 (plus handling fee) baskets come in a choice of petunias, million bells or mixed variety flowers. They can be purchased on the HWC website. Baskets will be available for pick up at the parking lot across from Welches Schools on May 17. The order deadline is April 10.
Looking in the rear view mirror, HWC sponsored a Sweetheart’s Ball on February 13. The event served not only as a fundraiser, but as an opportunity for local residents to dress up and enjoy music and dancing while sampling a variety of hors d’oeuvres and beverages.
Those interested in becoming HWC members can join via the HWC website for just $25/year. They can also check out the Club at one of its monthly meetings by first contacting board@hoodlandwomensclub.org. HWC’s March meeting will be at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, March 3, at the Rendezvous Grill.