Out of the 13 students who got in to the Junior Statesman Summer program in Stanford, Princeton and Georgetown, four received full scholarships. According to Tarita Holm, Junior Statesman Association Palau Coordinator, some students decided not to go anymore.
“There used to be five students that we’re trying to raise money for.
Now there are only three,” said Holm. “The others for some personal reasons, they just can’t make it. One student dropped, and one student is in the MicroGames.”
The students, with Holm’s help, have also written solicitation letters to the President, Vice-President, all the ministers and the OEK members, as well as many of the business establishments in Palau.
“Our target is to raise $19,000 for all three of them,” explained Holm. “But if we are able to raise enough for one student, then we will be very happy.”
So far they have raised $1,836.34 during Friday’s fundraising event, and there are still many individuals and companies who have pledged support, according to Holm.
“The Junior Statesmen Office in Washington D.C. is so impressed with our efforts and the community’s support that they have donated $3,000 for our cause,” said Holm. “And they’ve extended our deadline to make the tuition payment until June 22.”
At this point, JSA has enough funding to cover the tuition fee of one student only, but Holm said it is not enough for airfare.
“We are also asking support from leaders and the public via OnePass miles or frequent flyer miles. We are still optimistic that we will be able to reach our minimum goal of getting at least one student to Princeton this summer,” Holm shared.
The students also wanted to wash cars to raise funds, but because car wash for fund raising has been banned because of the water situation in Palau, the kids just decided to set up a tent and ask people to donate cash and goods.
Holm said over 100 people contributed money to the fundraiser. And among the government officials and business establishments that donated were First Commercial Bank, Palau Shop, R&C Bait and Tackle.
The Environment, Inc., Vice President Kerai Mariur, Delegate Rebluud Kesolei, Malakal Mini Storage, Minister of State Victor Yano, Vice Speaker Alex Merep and the Law Office of J. Uduch Sengebau Senior.
In kind donations were also given Palau Royal Resort, Shimbros, Koror State Youth Division, Roll’em Productions, Kinson Mariur and Antonio Fritz.
For interested donors, get in touch with Tarita Holm at 779-8635 or 488-8287.
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