Beginning this November, we'll be offering a unique, free to attend, class opportunity for explorers enrolled in our fall wellness series. This opportunity is sponsored by the Watson Masonry Memorial Foundation, a special subsidiary of Willowdale.
I first founded the Watson Masonry Memorial Scholarship knowing it would adapt over time, as does anything. As it continues to adapt to fit our needs, it's important that it remain true to my values while aligning with those of my loved ones. It's imperative I honor their legacy and create something they would be proud of. This scholarship has been, and always will be, at the forefront of my thoughts and long term goals and I'm happy to share we have a new direction going forward that benefits explorers enrolled in our classes.
History
I had previously offered this scholarship to students of Masconomet Regional High School serving the tri-town communities of Topsfield, Boxford and Middleton pursuing an entrepreneurial career in a skilled trade. I have yet to receive any applications; maybe it's too specific or I just didn't market it well. Many have asked me "why not offer it to students from Essex Technical High School?" My reasoning behind this has always been, from what I've learned, it has become very difficult to get into local trade based high schools thus, leaving students behind at traditional schools who could really benefit from exposure to skilled trades.
In lieu of supporting an applicant, in 2022 we distributed $1,000 to a local organization in Manchester, Girls at Work, who provides opportunities for young girls to gain exposure to trades through after school programs, workshops and summer camps.
Going forward
While we are still adapting, and always will be, a new mission of ours will be to expose kids at a young age to skilled trade opportunities. Beginning this fall, we will be offering Willowdale Workshops; a one day workshop for explorers that will offer exposure to a skilled trade while giving back to our community when possible. They will be a low-pressure, high-fun, no-cost and exclusive to families enrolled in my classes.
We have added a new section to our website to showcase this new class offering and so everyone can learn about this unique scholarship opportunity! We believe the goals of our foundation and Willowdale align to offer explorers opportunities to build skills they need to thrive in all aspects of life.
Details of this years event have been finalized and families enrolled in our fall Wellness series will be invited to attend next week! In the meantime, check out our new page to learn more about Willowdale Workshops + our foundation!
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