It is no secret that the price of a college education is not cheap. Although many capable people have the potential to thrive in higher education, they often do not receive the opportunity because of the cost. At Sagewood, a continuing care retirement / life plan community in Phoenix managed by Life Care Services, the residents decided to address this problem through a charitable organization.
“The people who were involved in setting [the fund] up wanted to give back to the employees who work so hard to help take care of us,” said Marlene Ross, immediate past president of the Sagewood Residents’ Foundation. “Everyone who works here is eligible to apply or their dependents can.”
In 2013, a group of Sagewood residents created the foundation as a 501(c)3 organization, intending to fund the college or trade school education of Sagewood staff members and their dependents. Since its inception, the foundation has raised more than $1.3 million and has awarded more than 425 scholarships.
Ross herself credits her education as a life-changing experience that almost was jeopardized by her family’s inability to afford college. Fortunately, she had the support and encouragement of her brother the entire time. Ross and other Sagewood residents believe the scholarship fund can provide similar support and encouragement to future generations.
“People who live [at Sagewood] have improved their lives as a result of their education,” Ross said. “We’re ‘paying it forward,’ is what I like to say.”
Over the years, more than a few success stories have occurred. Ross remembers one recipient specifically: the son of a housekeeper at Sagewood. Thanks to the scholarship, he was able to gain acceptance into an undergraduate degree program. His hard work earned him a degree. Sometimes the only thing people need is an opportunity.
“One student was a computer science major at Arizona State University,” Ross said. “Every semester, he would call me and say ‘It’s so hard! I’m working so hard, but I don’t think I’m gonna do well.’ Anyway, he graduated summa cum laude from ASU with a straight A-plus average. He’s got a terrific job, and he’s now married with two children.”
Above: Sagewood residents hit the community’s putting green as part of a fundraiser for the Sagewood Residents’ Foundation. (Photo courtesy of Sagewood)
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