Here's how to apply for a youth recreation scholarship from the park board this summer

Tony Madden, Springfield News-Leader
·3 min read

The Springfield-Greene County Park Board Youth Recreation Scholarship Fund offers scholarships for youth to participate in sports, summer camps, and other programs designed to build skills, confidence, and a healthy lifestyle. Scholarships may still be available to make the most of this summer.

Scholarships may be available to Springfield and Greene County residents under 18 who qualify for free and reduced price school meals or similar income guidelines. Here's how to apply for a Park Board Youth Recreation Scholarship.

Remember: Scholarships depend on funds available. Donations are always welcome and can be made by mail or online.

Does my household qualify for the youth recreation scholarship fund?

There are monthly and annual income limits for those interested in a parks scholarship, which change in amount based on how many people are in the household. Scholarship applications will not be processed if the Youth Recreation Scholarship Fund is depleted. Here is the breakdown of income limits:

  • For households with 2 members, the annual income limit is $36,482;

  • For households with 3 members, the annual income limit is $45,991;

  • For households with 4 members, the annual income limit is $55,500;

  • For households with 5 members, the annual income limit is $65,009;

  • For households with 6 members, the annual income limit is $74,518;

  • For households with 7 members, the annual income limit is $84,027;

  • For households with 8 members, the annual income limit is $95,536.

What kind of park scholarships are available? How much are they?

The Springfield-Greene County Park Board has three tiers of household scholarship limits. They are:

  • $170 per calendar year for households with one child;

  • $340 per calendar year for households with two children;

  • $510 per calendar year for households with three or more children;

  • In the event the fees for your requested program or programs exceeds these limits, you may use the scholarship up to these limits and pay any remaining balance.

How do I submit an application for a scholarship?

Applications must include:

  • Household income eligibility (proof of free or reduced lunch benefits OR a copy of your most recent 1040 or 1040A tax return);

  • Proof of Springfield or Greene County residence (utility bill; housing lease; etc.);

  • Registration form for the program for which you are applying (summer pool passes do not need a registration form);

  • Completed and signed scholarship application.

Completing and submitting the scholarship application

Before submitting the application, you will need to fill in the blanks with your information. This includes your name, date of birth, street address, phone numbers, email addresses, marital status, spouse's name, and their date of birth.

You will also need to fill out names, ages, and dates of birth for the children planning to participate in a summer activity. You will be required to provide the name, location, dates, and fees of the desired program. You will also have the option to provide any special circumstances that should be considered with the application.

You can submit the application online or in person at the main Park Board office at 1923 N. Weller Ave. Springfield, MO.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Here's how to apply for a Springfield park board youth scholarship