Here are some scholarships available for adults with disabilities in Illinois:
- AIM Center for Independent Living Scholarship
This scholarship offers up to $1,000 for residents of DuPage, Kane, or Kendall counties who have a certified disability. It can be used for tuition, books, or fees at accredited colleges, universities, or vocational schools. Applicants must write a one-page essay on “What Independent Living Means to Me.” Deadlines are June 15 for the fall semester and November 15 for the spring semesterThe Chicago Lighthouse
Scholarships.com.
- Lader Family Scholarship Program
Offered by The Chicago Lighthouse, this program supports Illinois residents who are blind or visually impaired or have another documented disability. It can fund tuition, assistive technology, and other educational expenses for accredited programs. Applications for the 2025 cycle open in January 2024The Chicago Lighthouse.
- Learning Disabilities Association of Illinois Scholarship
A $500 scholarship for students with a documented learning disability enrolling in undergraduate, technical, or vocational programs. Applicants must provide documentation of their disability and submit references and application materials by March 20, 2024.
For additional resources, consider visiting platforms like Scholarships.com or contacting local disability support organizations such as the Illinois Network of Centers for Independent Living. If you need help with specific applications, feel free to ask!
Here’s additional information about the scholarships for adults with disabilities in Illinois:
1. AIM Center for Independent Living Scholarship
- Eligibility:
Applicants must reside in DuPage, Kane, or Kendall counties and have a certified disability. They must be pursuing a degree or vocational training. - Award Details:
Up to $1,000 per recipient to cover tuition, books, or other fees. - Requirements:
A one-page essay on “What Independent Living Means to Me” is required. Documentation of disability must be provided. - Deadlines:
- June 15 for the fall semester.
- November 15 for the spring semester.
- Contact:
Visit AIM Center Scholarship Details for application instructions
Scholarships.com.
2. Lader Family Scholarship Program
- Eligibility:
Open to Illinois residents who are blind, visually impaired, or have another disability. Veterans employed at The Chicago Lighthouse are also eligible. - Award Details:
Funds can be used for tuition, assistive technology, books, and other education-related expenses. - Application Requirements:
- Personal essay.
- Financial need statement.
- Eye report form (for visually impaired applicants).
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Official transcripts (GPA minimum: 2.5).
- 2025 Application Window:
Opens January 2024. - Contact:
Email Maureen Reid at maureen.reid@chicagolighthouse.org or call (312) 997-3655 for details.
More information at Chicago LighthouseThe Chicago Lighthouse.
3. Learning Disabilities Association of Illinois Scholarship
- Eligibility:
Illinois residents with a documented learning disability who are enrolling in undergraduate, technical, or vocational programs. - Award Details:
$500, sent directly to the institution. - Application Requirements:
- Documentation of learning disability.
- Three letters of reference, including one from a teacher or counselor.
- Completed application forms.
- Deadline:
March 20, 2024. - Contact:
Email LDA of Illinois at ldaillinois@gmail.com or call (708) 430-7532.
Visit LDA Illinois Scholarship Details for more information.
Additional Resources:
- National Federation of the Blind (NFB) Scholarships:
Offers scholarships for blind and visually impaired students. Deadlines for the NFB of Illinois are typically in April. Visit NFB Illinois Scholarships for updates. - Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS):
May provide grants or funding for vocational training and higher education. Check the DHS Website.
If you’d like, I can assist with preparing application materials or locating further local scholarships. Let me know!
