Scholarships Support Career Aspirations

Resident Generosity Helps Team Members Pursue Higher Education

The Lifespace Foundation, and the residents it serves, understand the value of a meaningful career and the incredible doors higher education can open. That’s why for the 2019-2020 academic year, 48 scholarships were bestowed to team members across 12 communities. 

“I appreciate the support of Oak Trace — it’s been amazing,” said Caroline Conley, a culinary server at the Downers Grove, Illinois, community the last six years. For four years, Caroline has received The Foundation scholarship from Oak Trace, providing support throughout her associate degree program. 

Previously enrolled at the College of DuPage, she recently transferred to the University of Illinois at Chicago to study economics and finance, with her sights set on a career as a certified financial planner.

“I didn’t have to focus on tuition; it allowed me to work two part-time jobs and save that money,” she added. “It helped ease the financial burden on me and my family.” 

Britney Clark, a team member at Abbey Delray for 10 years, shares Caroline’s appreciation. 

“I’m so grateful; I don’t think I’d be where I am right now without the scholarship,” she said. 

Britney started as a dietary aide at the Delray Beach, Florida, community. With a desire to enter the health field, but unsure of a career path, she eventually decided on a certified nursing assistant (CNA), after encouragement from colleagues.

“Everyone here is like family,” said Britney. “The CNAs were so helpful. They said, ‘Why don’t you go to school, become a CNA?’” 

So she did, earning her CNA license and transitioning her role at the community. Britney is now taking additional courses to become a nurse. 

In 2019, more than $88,000 in scholarships was awarded to Lifespace team members through The Foundation – a symbol of the bond you will find between residents and team members at Lifespace communities.