Seeking Applicants for the Peterson Memorial Education Fund 

The Peterson Memorial Education Fund of the First Congregational Church, South Hadley was established in 1985 to help people who want to pursue their education, but whose financial situation makes it difficult for them to do so.  Since 1985, contributions have been made to the Fund in Ginger Peterson’s memory and awards have been given to many well-deserving recipients.  As a teacher, Ginger firmly believed that education could go a long way towards solving the problems of individuals, communities and nations.  In this spirit, a fund was set up in her name to help individuals pursue educational goals.

 In 2005 the Education Fund was augmented with contributions made in honor of the 15^th anniversary of the ordination of Ginger’s husband, Gus Peterson, and his 15 years of dedicated service and spiritual leadership of our congregation.

 Over the years the Fund has assisted members and friends of our congregation, area high school students headed for college, and students enrolled at local colleges with a variety of education and religious endeavors that they were having difficulty financing.  In 2007 an award was given from the Fund to Sarah Howe, who took an educational mission trip to Durban, South Africa, with classmates from Connecticut College.  An award was also given in 2007 to a student from Zimbabwe who is studying business administration at Mount Holyoke College.  She has a goal of using her education to help orphans with their educational and financial needs.

 The Fund is administered by the Mission Committee of this Church.  The Mission Committee has designated the Peterson Fund Committee to perform the day-to-day administration of the Fund.  The members of the Peterson Fund Committee are Bobbie Ayers, Sarah Smith, John Webster, and Del Borah.

 The Peterson Fund Committee is seeking qualified applicants who exemplify the spirit of this program and are in need of assistance for the upcoming school year.  Applications for the upcoming school year are due by July 1, 2007.  Applications for other educational opportunities, such as workshops, religious conferences, etc., may be submitted at any time. 

 Informational brochures and application forms for awards are available through the Church office.  If you would like more information about the Peterson Memorial Education Fund, please contact Del Borah, Barbara Ayers, John Webster, or Sarah Smith.  If you would like to make a donation to the Fund, you can place it in the collection basket (please write “Peterson Memorial Education Fund” on the envelope or in the memo area on your check). 

Del Borah

March 15, 2008