Every year thousands of students have the desire to attend college and continue with their studies, but do not know how they are going to pay for it.
Fortunately, the Student Fellowship for Blacks Inc. (SFB), is dedicated to helping promising students get into college and stay there, avoid punishing debt and build a stable future.
“We are dedicated to providing free monies to economically disadvantaged students who are attending college,” said Carl Holifield, chairman of SFB.
As a non-profit organization, Indiana based SFB accepts donations from individuals, numerous companies and faith-based groups. Since its founding in 1978, SFB has raised more than $170,000 for students.
Applications for funds are still available for this year, and students have until June 3 to apply at SFB’s website.
Over the years, SFB has enjoyed the support of prominent honorary board members firmly committed to its cause, such as former Gary Mayor Richard Hatcher, attorney and orator Patricia Russell McCloud, basketball star Oscar Robertson and gospel music executive Al Hobbs.
Although raising funds for students is its primary objective, SFB also emphasizes entrepreneurship among students.
“Being self-employed is the guiding force to wealth, position and honor,” Holifield said. “This admirable activity that occurs in our neighborhoods is a reality.”
However, SFB cannot continue to help area students without a steady stream of financial support. Therefore, it will present is annual fundraiser, the African Fashion Show and Monte Carlo Night at the Cosmos Knights Club Inc., 3338 N. Illinois St., on May 18 from 6 to 11 p.m.
“It has been an honor to be here for our students, and we look forward to working with our supporters during the remainder of this year,” Holifield said.
For more information on Student Fellowship for Blacks, visit studentfellowshipforblacks.org, or call (317) 549-3166.
