The Disability Resource Network (DRN) is now accepting applications for the Fall 2009 BE THE PIECE Scholarship competition to support qualified individuals with autism or aspergers in Ohio pursuing post-secondary education.

Applications due by Friday, July 31, 2009. Winners to be announced by Friday, August 7, 2009.

DRN will present one award of $1000 in each of three categories:

1. Four-year undergraduate college or university.
2. Two-year undergraduate college; and,
3. Trade, technical, or vocational school.

Click on the link below to download the form of a copy of the BE THE PIECE Scholarship form. You must have Adobe Acrobat Reader to view the document after downloading.

 

BE THE PIECE Scholarship Application form

 

Eligibility: Any individual with an established autism or Asperger's Syndrome diagnosis and who has been accepted for the Fall 2008 semester or is currently attending an accredited institution of higher education and will continue in the Fall 2008 is eligible to apply. Eligible individuals need to be enrolled on at least a part-time basis (6 credits) or be working toward certification or accreditation in a particular field.

Application: Individuals interested in applying for the BE THE PIECE Scholarship must submit the following:

1. A completed application form downloadable from the web site.
2. Documentation of diagnosis as a person on the autism spectrum.
3. Documentation of acceptance or attendance at qualifying institution.
4. A letter of recommendation from someone other than a family member, who is familiar with the individual's potential to complete the required coursework: and
5. An autobiographical essay, not to exceed 1,000 words, in written, recorded or video form including your reasons for applying for the BE THE PIECE Scholarship.

Applications should mail application and all related materials to:

Disability Resource Network
Attn: BE THE PEICE Scholarship
3080 Westerville Road
Columbus, Ohio 43224

Applications sent by U.S. mail or other delivery service must be postmarked no later than July 31, 2009.

Review: All completed applications will be reviewed by a committee consisting of at least three people who will include a representative for DRN, BE THE PIECE Scholarship Program, and an individual on the autism spectrum. Factors including originality of content, financial need, previous challenges overcome, and stated aspirations may be considered by the committee in making their decision. DRN will announce the scholarship awards on August 1, 2008 and will award the funds for the Fall semester by August 7, 2009, in time for the Fall semester.

For more information contact:
Lorilee Bias at lbias@disabilityresourcenetwork.com
or call 614-414-0803.