Crook County Foundation Scholarship Applications open, CCHS seniors & those seeking higher education eligible to apply

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Crook County Foundation opened its 2026 Scholarship Applications on March 16th, offering funding opportunities for local students pursuing higher education. Graduating Crook County High School seniors and current students continuing or returning to higher education have until April 17th, 2026, to submit their applications.

The Prineville-based organization is looking to build on its 2025 impact, during which it awarded 59 scholarships totaling nearly $117,500. This year's portfolio includes 23 distinct funds designed to support students across a wide range of academic backgrounds and financial needs.

The 2026 scholarship funds will support students pursuing various career paths, including agricultural sciences, dental hygiene, music, medicine, engineering, welding technology and business. The foundation also provides funding for students interested in mechanics, education and the arts. These opportunities are available for those attending community colleges, vocational programs and universities.

Selection for the scholarship recipients is based on a variety of factors, including financial need, academic achievement, professional interests and community involvement. The foundation is also continuing its Bootstrap Wage Matching Scholarship this year. This program utilizes a wage-matching model to support working students who are earning an income while building new professional skills.

The Crook County Foundation was established in 2001 with a single endowed scholarship. Since then, the organization has grown to manage 23 distinct scholarship funds. Each of these funds reflects the specific values and aspirations of the local families, organizations and community members who established them.

Gwen Carr serves as the executive director of the Crook County Foundation. She emphasized that the program relies on local support to maintain its investment in the next generation of students. "Every year, we are inspired by the drive and determination of Crook County students," Carr said. "These scholarships are made possible by the generosity of our donors, who believe in the future of this community. I encourage every eligible student to apply. The opportunity is here and our community is behind you."

Applicants are encouraged to begin the process early rather than waiting until the final deadline. For questions regarding eligibility or the application process, the foundation can be reached at info@crookcountyfoundation.org or by calling 541-362-1210.

The application window will remain open until April 17, 2026. Full program details and applications are available on the foundation's website.