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The PCAFPD is a rather cumbersome name for an organization that provides college scholarships to low- income yet capable students to study at Philippine colleges and universities. Each year the Foundation awards about 15 new scholarships to high school graduates or graduating high school seniors. Currently there are about 50 scholars working on degrees at four-year schools. Students apply usually through their high school principals. They need certification from their schools and local officials. They are required to write an essay on their life goals and submit grade transcripts. Graduates of the program have gone on to teaching, environmental work, engineering, government work and other fields. Finalist selection is made by the organization board solely on need and qualifications. The Foundation was begun in 1983 by returned Peace Corps Volunteers who had served in the Philippines. Its work is sustained by contributions from returned Peace Corps Volunteers, individuals interested in the Philippines, and organizations with some connection with the country. The Foundation operates with nearly all volunteers allowing for a very large portion of the money raised going directly to the students and their schools. The students and schools submit progress reports at the end of each semester. The Foundation’s Board of Directors is made up of former Peace Corps volunteers primarily from around the Washington, DC area. A newsletter is produced and there are two fund appeals each year. The Foundation has a vice-president in the Philippines who oversees the paperwork and disperses the funds to the scholars for their expenses and to their schools for the scholars’ tuition and fees. The VP’s half time secretary is the Foundation’s only paid employee. The Foundation is very cost effective. The support for one student at a state run school costs about $1,000 US. This includes tuition, fees, dormitory and meals, and miscellaneous expenses. For every one thousand dollars raised, the Foundation can support a student for roughly one academic year. The Foundation requires that recipients stay in the Philippines for 4 years, or after graduation. In recent years, there is a fledgling alumni group of former Foundation scholars. Members of this alumni group help mentor current scholars, and help graduates find jobs and make career contacts following graduation. PCAFPD in an IRS 501(C)3 organization under the laws of the District of Columbia. PCAFPD is an affiliate of the National Peace Corps Association. You can email PCAFPD at: and visit their Web site at: |