For Immediate Release
Contact: Kim Schmelz, Foundation Director
Phone: 608.822.2379
Mail: 1800 Bronson Blvd., Fennimore, WI 53809
Date of Release: February 22, 2021
Platteville Community Fund supports Southwest Tech students
Fennimore -The Southwest Wisconsin Technical College Foundation was awarded a $1,000 grant in June 2020 from the Platteville Community Fund, specifically the Elinore Loveland Trust, to be used to support the Charger Dream fund.
The Charger Dream Fund assists students through financial emergencies by awarding one-time grants up to $500 in order that their education not be interrupted by an unexpected financial emergency. “The Charger Dream Fund has had a significant impact on our students and their ability to remain in college while weathering all the effects of COVID-19 throughout the last year,” said Kim Schmelz, Director of External Relations and Alumni Development.
Since July 1, 2020 the Southwest Tech Foundation has awarded more than $9,000 in Charger Dream grants, and an additional $23,000 in grants from similar funds that are provided by the Wisconsin Technical College System or were developed specifically for COVID-19 related emergencies. In total, these funds have provided assistance for 72 students. The grant funding from the Platteville Community Foundation was awarded to two students living in Platteville.
College and national research found that students who do not complete their program cite financial reasons as the cause. Charger Dream grants are a critical factor in Southwest Tech’s above average retention and graduation rates.
The Southwest Tech Foundation is appreciative of the gift from the Platteville Community Fund and Elinore Loveland Trust. “We are proud to be a part of the more than $23,000 that the Platteville Community Fund awarded in grants to improve and enhance the community,” said Schmelz.
The Platteville Community Fund is a component of the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, a resource for area nonprofit organizations whose programs and services are working for the betterment of our communities.
For more information about the Charger Dream Fund or other funding opportunities with Southwest Tech please contact the Southwest Tech Foundation office at 608.822.2379.
For more information on how to support the community through the Community Foundation, contact Dave Murphy at dave@cfsw.org or by phone (608) 758-0883 ext. 7010 or visit www.cfsw.org.