Rugby Program Awards $200K to 400+ Students Since 2002

For more than 20 years, Rugby Dollars for Scholars has quietly helped over 400 local students afford their next step after high school, awarding more than $200,000 in scholarships since 2002. Now, this North Dakota community is thinking bigger.

The volunteer-run organization has launched an endowment fund designed to turn $500 awards into life-changing support that could cover an entire first year of college or training. The fund currently holds $175,000, but board members have set their sights on $3-5 million.

"We want to grow from giving kids a nice scholarship to something life-changing," said board member Jesse Rue. He sees it as more than education funding. "When a student can afford training, they're more likely to build a career, come back, and contribute to the community."

The chapter operates with complete fairness at its core. During selection, board members review applications without seeing student names, ensuring unbiased awards for every applicant.

Rugby's program stands out for serving more than just graduating seniors. The organization also provides scholarships for students already in college and manages "pass-through" scholarships for local families and businesses who want to give back without handling paperwork.

The Ripple Effect

What makes this endowment special is its永久 permanence. Unlike annual fundraisers that help one graduating class, endowment earnings support students year after year without depleting the principal.

Donors can contribute to the general fund or create "Forever Scholarships" by attaching a family name or business to an annual award. These named scholarships create lasting legacies while giving businesses community visibility at award ceremonies.

The chapter recently honored Paul Schaan, one of its founding board members, who retired after more than 20 years of service. His dedication helped build the foundation that now supports hundreds of Rugby students.

The organization raises money through creative community efforts including concessions and raffles at local ballgames. Their annual fundraiser on April 17 will feature a piano entertainment show designed to welcome new supporters.

Rugby Dollars for Scholars encourages gifts both immediate and planned, including estate bequests that can create transformational impact long into the future.

"When you help a young person get trained, you're strengthening a family, strengthening a workforce and strengthening the future of Rugby," organizers say. This endowment turns a community's commitment to its children into something that compounds benefits for generations.