We’re delighted to announce the newest recipients of School on Wheels of Massachusetts’ “Soaring Scholar” scholarships. This year, sixteen incredible students from our Bridge Mentoring Program have been awarded a total of $41,500 in scholarships, our biggest year yet!
The 2025 application cycle broke records across the board, including the highest number of applications submitted, the most recipients selected, and the largest amount of funding awarded since the program began 3 years ago.
The Soaring Scholars program launched in 2022, thanks to the generosity and vision of Bill and Annmarie Harlor of Norton. After volunteering as mentors through SOWMA, the Harlors witnessed firsthand the transformative power of guidance and encouragement in a young person’s life. Inspired, they took action and asked their own network of family and friends to join them in supporting scholarships for students experiencing homelessness.
All Soaring Scholar recipients are high school or post-secondary students actively engaged in SOWMA’s Bridge Mentoring Program, which pairs students facing homelessness or poverty with dedicated volunteer mentors – and provides the academic tools and resources they need to succeed.
“Our scholarship recipients are extremely appreciative and deeply grateful for the opportunity to continue pursuing their educational goals, which would likely not be attainable without this support,” said Brittany O’Hare, Director of SOWMA’s Bridge Program.
Since its inception, the scholarship program has awarded $130,000 to 24 students, and the momentum continues to grow.
“These young people are growing up in very difficult situations,” said Annmarie Harlor. “It’s inspiring to see how they continue to persevere towards their goals, despite significant challenges and obstacles.”
“It’s gratifying to play a small part in helping someone change the course of their life. We are grateful to have our family and friends support this wonderful cause along with us,” added Bill Harlor.
We can’t wait to share more about this year’s Soaring Scholars and their incredible stories of courage, resilience, and hope at our Soaring Scholars Gala on November 20th. Save the Date and stay tuned!
