Empowering Philadelphia's Students: A Transformative Scholarship Initiative

In a remarkable display of community support, the Bridge Educational Foundation, through the generosity of Malady & Wooten, Waste Management, and Raymond James, recently donated an impressive 3,000 in EITC and OSTC scholarships to families in Philadelphia. This transformative event, held at Father Judge High School, underscores the Foundation's unwavering commitment to providing educational opportunities for the city's students.

Unlocking Doors to a Brighter Future

Expanding Scholarship Horizons

The Bridge Educational Foundation's scholarship programs, made possible through the state's Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) initiatives, have been a game-changer for families in Philadelphia. Natalie Nutt, the Foundation's executive director, expressed her delight at the recent increase in scholarship funding, a testament to the legislature's recognition of the vital role these programs play in empowering students and families.

A Collaborative Effort

The event was graced by the presence of esteemed community leaders, including Waste Management's Judy Archibald and Mike Flanagan, a 1995 Judge graduate; Dave Eckhart of Raymond James; Dennis Giorno of Malady & Wooten, a Bridge board member and 1990 Judge graduate; Bobby Keyes, a Bridge board member and 1981 Judge graduate; state Senator Jimmy Dillon; state Representatives Pat Gallagher and Ed Neilson; and City Councilman Mike Driscoll. These individuals, along with the dedicated team at Father Judge High School, including Principal Jim Hozier, Major Gifts Officer Jason Budd, and the Reverend Joe Campellone, a former president, came together to celebrate the transformative impact of these scholarships.

Empowering Families, Transforming Lives

The event showcased the far-reaching impact of the Bridge Educational Foundation's scholarship programs, with representatives from various schools in the area in attendance, including St. Cecilia, Nazareth Academy High School, Archbishop Ryan, Federation Early Learning Services, St. Anselm, Frankford Friends, Cedar Grove Christian Academy, Community Partnership School, St. Francis de Sales, Greene Street Friends, Girard College, Neumann-Goretti, and KenCrest Services. These institutions, each with their unique educational offerings, serve as beacons of hope for families seeking to provide their children with the best possible educational opportunities.

Honoring Dedicated Service

The event also recognized the Reverend Joe Campellone's unwavering commitment to Father Judge High School, as he was presented with a citation from Councilman Driscoll for his more than 25 years of involvement with the school. This acknowledgment underscores the vital role that dedicated educators and community leaders play in shaping the lives of young people.

A Transformative Impact

The Bridge Educational Foundation's scholarship programs have had a profound impact on the lives of students and families in Philadelphia. As Jason Budd, the Major Gifts Officer at Father Judge High School, eloquently stated, the Foundation's work is "so exponentially important" for the school's families, providing them with the resources and support they need to access quality education.The Bridge Educational Foundation's scholarship initiative, supported by the generosity of Malady & Wooten, Waste Management, and Raymond James, stands as a shining example of how collaborative efforts can unlock doors to a brighter future for Philadelphia's students. This transformative event serves as a testament to the power of community, education, and the unwavering commitment to empowering the next generation.