Scholarship Program

The scholarship program provides low income individuals and families assistance so they can participate in Park Ridge Park District programs such as preschool, Beyond the Bell, camp, swim lessons, and more. The program is funded by the Park Ridge Friends of the Parks through fundraising efforts throughout the year, and administered through the Park Ridge Park District.

Eligibility

• Scholarship assistance is available to Park Ridge Park District residents only.
• Park Ridge residents who do not pay taxes to the Park Ridge Park District are not eligible.
• Evidence of financial need must be demonstrated. Scholarships are awarded to families who fall under the Illinois Income Guidelines, unless unique circumstance is presented.
• Completion and submission of Scholarship Program Application along with all supporting paperwork necessary to verify financial eligibility. Please see below for required documentation.

Limits on Scholarships

• Participation in program is not permitted until final approval of scholarship.
• For high-demand programs with limited space, such as summer camp or Beyond the Bell, we advise applicants to register for the program and pay in full. Approved scholarships will be applied to your account and the awarded amount will be refunded to you.
• Scholarships are not available for memberships, special events, trips, or program materials.
• The Park District reserves the right to place scholarships recipients in alternate sections of the requested program.
• Scholarships will be limited to a maximum of one opportunity per season, not to exceed $100 per season for each family member. This limit may be raised for applicants requesting scholarships for summer day camps, Beyond the Bell, and preschool.
• Approved scholarship recipients are responsible for 50% to 80% of program fees.
• Scholarships require approximately two (2) weeks to process and approve.
• Financial assistance is awarded on the basis of need and availability of funds. The Park Ridge Park District reserves the right to approve either partial or full funding or deny an applicant's request.
• Limited funds are available for financial assistance and will be awarded in accordance with the Park District fiscal year.