2008 Woodie Awards
Non-profit helps students save money
Kyle Hansen
Issue date: 3/21/07 Section: News
Donaker Brown said that some of the real value of the program comes from the educational aspect rather than the financial assistance.
"Some people come into the program thinking they just have to take the classes to get the money," she said. "But it often turns out to be the most beneficial part."
Lenders for Community Development also have a small business loan program for people who want to start or expand their own businesses.
Givens said that the business loans are for people who are not able to get a loan from a traditional bank but have a valid business plan. The organization has professionals that work with them and give advice and training for business owners.
The small business loan program is based on the same micro-loan model that is being used in third world countries, Givens said.
"The loans are for people who need a small amount, have little experience and little or no credit," Givens said.
Coleetta McElroy, the assistant director of the financial aid and scholarship office, said that there are many ways for students to get help to pay for their education.
The financial aid office, unlike lenders for community development, is focused on administering government aid, McElroy said. Students who are interested should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid as soon as possible.
"It is not too late to still apply for financial aid," McElroy said. "There are more students applying for financial aid, so for maximum funding we tell students to apply right away."
"They should not delay too much longer," she said. "And reply to our requests for documents as soon as possible."
Students interested in the Lenders for Community Development IDA savings program can call 1-866-364-4391 or e-mail gwendy@L4CD.com. More information about the business loans is available at 1-866-299-8173.
"Some people come into the program thinking they just have to take the classes to get the money," she said. "But it often turns out to be the most beneficial part."
Lenders for Community Development also have a small business loan program for people who want to start or expand their own businesses.
Givens said that the business loans are for people who are not able to get a loan from a traditional bank but have a valid business plan. The organization has professionals that work with them and give advice and training for business owners.
The small business loan program is based on the same micro-loan model that is being used in third world countries, Givens said.
"The loans are for people who need a small amount, have little experience and little or no credit," Givens said.
Coleetta McElroy, the assistant director of the financial aid and scholarship office, said that there are many ways for students to get help to pay for their education.
The financial aid office, unlike lenders for community development, is focused on administering government aid, McElroy said. Students who are interested should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid as soon as possible.
"It is not too late to still apply for financial aid," McElroy said. "There are more students applying for financial aid, so for maximum funding we tell students to apply right away."
"They should not delay too much longer," she said. "And reply to our requests for documents as soon as possible."
Students interested in the Lenders for Community Development IDA savings program can call 1-866-364-4391 or e-mail gwendy@L4CD.com. More information about the business loans is available at 1-866-299-8173.
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