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Our Tools of the Trade Scholarships Awards 2025 supports the pursuit of professional careers in the arts, music, and entertainment. 14 Scholars and counting.

Founded in 2017, The Whitlow Foundation is an official 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit headquartered in Washington, DC • EIN 82-3515356

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 Firstly, 

We thank our sponsors — both private and public for supporting us in our mission and projects. The mission of the culinary and creative arts programs is to provide a supportive environment in which every participant will be prepared and empowered for success at the career level in a way that contributes to our global society. We fully embrace our population's growing academic, cultural, and social diversity.

 One of the most pressing needs is understanding that... 

Lower income communities face many educational barriers and are forced to follow nontraditional career paths. 

 That is why... 

In today's climate, funding for scholarships to pursue those careers are not always readily accessible. Scholarships allow deserving students to attain their educational goals, meet their professional objectives and succeed to their fullest ability. In addition, scholarships enable practicing professionals to take advantage of opportunities for continuing professional development. The Whitlow Foundation believes that if you own your tools you will be empowered to fulfill your journey in the arts.

 Pipelines to Progress 

According to ThinkProgress, “The high cost of college and other factors are causing American students to drop out before receiving their degree at higher rates than in other developed countries, according to a new study from Harvard University. Only 56 percent of the students who enter America’s colleges and universities graduate within six years, while only 29 percent of students who enter two-year programs complete their degrees within three years, the study found.

 Our First Generation Partnership 

Challenges Facing First-Generation College and University Students
Many studies show that first-gens, no matter how they're defined, face more challenges in college than students whose family members have attended school. For example, first-gen students are less likely to apply to and attend college in the first place.

If you're the first person in your family considering going to college, chances are you have a lot of questions about higher education, and you might be unsure where to get answers. The good news is, many college admissions offices are dedicating to recruiting more first-gen students and there are many online communities dedicated to first-gen students. When you're looking at schools, ask about how they suaapport first-gen students and how you can connect with other students in similar situations.

Opportunities for First-Gens
It's important for colleges to know if you are the first in your family to pursue a college degree. Many schools want to have first-generation college students make up more of their student body, and they may offer financial aid specifically for first-gens, as well as peer groups and mentor programs for those students. If you aren't sure where to start learning about these things, talk to your academic adviser or even the dean of students. On top of that, search for scholarships geared toward first-gens. Seeking out and applying for scholarships can be exhausting and time-consuming, but they're worth the effort if you're short on funds or are planning on taking out student loans to pay for college.

 Become a Scholarship Sponsor 

Through our fundraising platform Food As Art, sponsorships, donors, and supporters, $14,000 will help 14 recipients pursue their passion for the arts. With our "Tools of the Trade" Scholarship.  $1,000 will help one individual pursue their passion for the arts. Our scholarships support all art forms. 

Become a Scholarship Sponsor today and find out more about the benefits of being one!

Founded in 2017, The Whitlow Foundation is an official 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit headquartered in Washington, DC • EIN 82-351356

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