West-Central Independent Living Solutions (WILS) is proud to announce that Chance Brown, a high school senior at Smithton High School has been awarded the WILS Empowerment Scholarship. This $500 scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior in Johnson, Lafayette, Henry, Benton, Pettis, or Saline Counties with a disability who plans to continue their education at a four-year college, associates program, community college, or vocational technology program.
Brown was chosen by a panel of judges based on his essay application. Brown is excited to use this opportunity to continue his education at the Grand River Welding . “Hard work and dedication gains more respect than anything. My grandpa used to say this to me which made my work ethic better than it has ever been. I wish to gain skills and knowledge during this school time and to help my future with a good paying job,” Brown says.
WILS collaborates with local high schools to offer independent living courses for students with disabilities to prepare them for transitions to secondary education, the workforce, and living on their own.
“Chance’s essay shows that he is willing to work hard, despite challenges he has faced. Chance is not only pursuing his passion for himself, but for those that have been there for him along the way. Chance has a heart for others, and a determination to not let anything hold him back. WILS is honored to be a part of Chance’s next chapter in his life,” says Samantha Jarvis, WILS Independent Living Coordinator.
As a Center for Independent Living, WILS strives to remove barriers and prejudices and empowers people with disabilities to live independently. They are a nonprofit resource center that serves people with disabilities and their families through programs and services.
For more information on WILS and their programs, please visit their website at w-ils.org or contact info@w-ils.org. Congratulations once again to Chance on his outstanding achievement!