Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative will award $1,500 scholarships to 85 students for a total of $127,500 in celebration of the co-op’s 85th anniversary in 2023. Scholarship candidates are also invited to apply for the 2023 Electric Co-op Youth Tour of Washington, D.C. Two delegates will be selected to represent Polk-Burnett; each Youth Tour award is valued at $2,500.

Polk-Burnett’s scholarship program is based on community service, not academic grades, athletic performance or financial need. Candidates are required to submit a community service resume. In addition, candidates must be 1) the child or legal dependent of a Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative member, 2) graduating from high school in 2023 and 3) continuing education at an accredited technical school, college or university after high school.

“We’re excited to celebrate our 85th anniversary with 85 scholarships for co-op kids,” said Joan O’Fallon, Polk-Burnett communications director. “This is our opportunity to do something special for the children of co-op members who make a difference in the lives of others.”

“Giving back to our community and local youth is part of our mission as a cooperative,” added Polk-Burnett General Manager Steve Stroshane.

Since 1987, Polk-Burnett has awarded more than $919,000 to high school seniors.

Polk-Burnett’s scholarship program does not affect electric rates; it is funded with unclaimed Capital Credits that otherwise would be forfeited to the state, and by the generosity of co-op members who donate Capital Credits to the scholarship fund. If you'd like to donate Capital Credits to the co-op’s scholarship fund, you can learn more and enroll online.

Scholarship applications will be accepted on the co-op’s website. The application deadline is January 1, 2023. To apply and learn more, visit our scholarship webpage.