Scholarships at SSP

A key part of SSP’s mission has always been to make our programs accessible to anyone who wants to take part. We are committed to ensuring the inclusion of all people and reducing financial barriers. One way we live this out is through our scholarship fund for participants!

In 2022, SSP awarded over $30,000 in scholarships to participants in need. We hope to continue providing substantial scholarships for youth with financial need to participate in our programs.

“Sierra Service Project was a great experience because I met a lot of teens from different places, helped others, and had fun. [Participating in] SSP on a scholarship made it more affordable for my family. Thank you very much; it made a big difference in my life.”

Donations from generous family foundations that support low-income teens have allowed us to increase our overall scholarship funds. SSP has plentiful funds available for scholarship awards in 2023, with focus on particular geographies across the Western United States. We hope these funds will allow for even more volunteers to participate in the SSP experience.

Regional Scholarships

In addition SSP’s general scholarship fund, we have some region-based funding available for volunteer groups. We are grateful for our generous donors who invest in teenagers’ futures!

The process to apply is the same as for general funding, and if your group qualifies, we will automatically award these region-specific funds in lieu of the general fund.

• Central Valley District Union

  • Any volunteer group from Central Valley District churches in the California-Nevada United Methodist Conference can apply for financial support to participate in SSP. Qualifying groups should contact Mark.Wharff@cnumc.org to apply. This award is separate from SSP participant fees, but can support the cost of travel to and from site.

How to Apply:

Scholarship applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and we will offer awards as funds are available. Scholarships for the next summer program are awarded beginning February 1, leading up to the summer as funds are available.

If you represent a volunteer group, complete the Group Scholarship Application to explain your group’s needs. Anyone signed up as an individual volunteer (not connected to a group) is also invited to apply, using the Individual Scholarship Application.

Contact the SSP office with any questions!

(For liaisons to complete on behalf of a registered group)

(For participants registered as individuals, not as part of a group)

Want to Support SSP’s Scholarship Program?

Our scholarship program relies on the generosity of supporters who believe in the value of the SSP experience. To continue making this experience accessible to youth from all backgrounds, consider becoming a donor!