Commit 2 Action

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Commit 2 Action is a subsidiary of Crane Enterprises. We are a professional counseling and inspirational seminar service that promotes Diversity Education and Higher Education Guidance Counseling, with an intercultural perspective and spiritual foundation.

Commit 2 Action was founded in 1998 as the first service to be offered by Crane Enterprises.

Our international diversity education program will enhance your ability to appreciate differences among various people that you come into contact with on a daily basis. We can create a customized diversity educational/training program for your place of business, and/or community organization. We specialize with conducting diversity audits to gage the sensitivity and appreciation your establishment has for diversity. Our diversity counselors can serve as conference/keynote speaker(s), skilled workshop presenters, or as breakout session facilitators.

As an educational counseling service, we provide focused programs for high school students and families to learn and become comfortable about the college search process. We offer independent guidance counseling for high school students which may include a customized college search plan to guide you through the post secondary search process. Commit 2 Action publishes a comprehensive Post-Secondary Preparation Guide that will give families a step by step tool to use as they navigate through the college/university process from the initial search to matriculation.

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Questions About Race

In February 2004, J. C. Crane delivered a powerful and insightful presentation at Washtenaw Community College in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The presentation, “Building A Multicultural Community,” was so inspiring and thought provoking that J. C. was asked to participate in a question and answer session with students from Interpersonal and Intercultural Communication classes. The following are the actual questions from students with J. C’s answers.

Why is it so hard for people to welcome diversity?

Some people have become so rigid within their comfort zones that they have chosen to defend it whenever they are face to face with cultural diverse situations. They defend their comfort zones by surrounding themselves with people who look like them and think like them. In doing so, they minimize the importance of diversity. Therefore, they believe that it is not necessary to welcome diversity because it is invisible to them.

Why is there so much racial tension between the Black race and the White race?

Racial tension continues to exist between these two races because of the social introduction (Trans-Atlantic Slave trade) between these two groups. The Black race is the only race on the planet to endure hostile treatment permissible by law. The architects of the law during this time were White European Americans. This caused the original tension between the two races. This tension continues today because some descendants of White European Americans believe the negative stereotypes and propaganda that was accepted decades ago. Also, some descendants of Black African Americans are determined not to be victims of covert manipulative legislation and practices. Therefore, there is an underlying distrust on both sides.

Why are some Southerners still very racist?

Some Southerners are racist because the social introduction between the White race and the Black race took place during the Trans Atlantic Slave Trade. The need for this physical labor was the result of an increase of tobacco, cotton, and sugar plantations that were dominant in the American South. Therefore, the South became the original battlefield of racial tension, and some Southerners are still imprisoned within these old ideologies.

Why are people against interracial couples/marriage?

This is a very sensitive issue because it often involves family. The answer is also a good test for people who say they do not stereotype and are not prejudice. It is easy to make a statement and declare that you are not prejudice if you are removed from any sort of cultural diversity. However, if your mother, father, brother, sister, son, or daughter were to become involved in a romantic relationship with someone of another race, this brings diversity right into your living room. Some people can appreciate cultural diversity as long as it does not affect them personally. When diversity (interracial couples/marriage) manifests itself in certain households, there is a false sense of racial betrayal. A particular family member did not choose someone of the same race, and therefore this romantic interest is not good enough because he/she is different from the family nucleus. Therefore, some people will see someone from their race engaged in a romantic relationship with someone from a different race and become annoyed because they feel that the person is not being true to their race and heritage. However, you will find an exception to this mentality in the answer to question #18.

Why is there still such an ethnic division throughout America?

See question number 1.

Do you think it is essential that ethnic groups stay self-contained in our society to maintain a sense of cultural identity, or is it more important that they all integrate for the American “melting pot?”

This is an excellent question. First, I believe that nothing can be taken away from you unless you allow it to happen. You cannot lose your cultural identity unless it is not important to you. A Black African American reared in inner city Detroit, can grow into adulthood and move to Novi Michigan and still be ingrained within the Black African American community. Also, this same person can completely cut off his Detroit roots and choose not to identity himself with the Black community. Instead, this person may choose to engage in personal and professional relationships with his White European American neighbors and peers. Your cultural identity is within you, it is not about you. Therefore, you choose how, where, and when to manifest your cultural identity. To that end, it is important to note how different ethnic groups choose to integrate. As Americans, we integrate with each other whether we like it or not. On your way to class today count how many people you see who look different than you do. You are part of an integrated multicultural melting pot at Washtenaw Community College, and you do not have a choice about it. However, you can choose how you want to interact with these different people. You can say “hi” as you pass someone, you can say nothing and keep your eyes forward, or you can say, “You suck!J” as you pass a person. In any case you have contributed to Washtenaw’s melting pot……. or as I would say Washtenaw’s multicultural community.

Why do most minorities favor affirmative action even though it is viewed as another form of racism?

Let me answer this question personally because I am a beneficiary of affirmative action. Also, I straddle the fence when it comes to affirmative action because there are some weaknesses in the policy. However, there is nothing out there better than affirmative action right now. (If you know of a better legislative policy, email it to me so we can both get rich J.) Please remember these two things about affirmative action: A) Affirmative Action has been attacked and will be attacked again because it has been successful. Affirmative Action has worked in the United States. Women and Minorities have been hired for gainful employment in record numbers since the inception of this legislation B) Affirmative Action was never intended to give jobs/employment to unqualified people. The intent was to make a level playing field that appreciates and is sensitive to cultural diversity in the workplace. I agree that Affirmative Action needs to be tailored. However, it cannot be abolished until we eradicate stereotypes. Affirmative Action serves as the “check and balance” of cultural stereotypes.

Why do Americans have to have personal space while other countries mainly Western Europeans are more open and touchy feely?

I know several Americans who would allow you to touch them as often and as long as you like J. However, other Americans may be concerned about personal space because we are an extremely competitive country and we value success very highly. Some Americans prefer privacy as prevention from being manipulated or prevented from climbing the corporate ladder. In other words, the less you know about me, and the less intimate time we spend together means a person is less distracted and remains focused on the prize.

Why are other countries more open about sex, and Americans treat it as a taboo subject?

Just as I stated in the last question, this depends on the particular American. I know some Americans who treat sex like oxygen….a life giving element J. However, the majority of Americans respect the fact that our country was founded on Judeo-Christian values and principles. These values support the idea that sex is to be shared between a man and a woman after marriage. Any sexual activity before marriage, between members of the same sex, with children, and/or with animals, contradicts these values and principles. However, some parts of our country have begun to stray from these values and we are seeing more acceptance of gay/lesbian and transgender populations.

When I walk through the halls or out in public I find that a lot of Hispanic men stare at women. Why??

There could be some trepidation and nervousness with some of these Hispanic/Latino men because of the language barrier. Perhaps these men may not be as fluent in English and this makes them apprehensive about approaching the women. However, it is a generalization for me to assume that all the Hispanic/Latino men you see cannot speak English well. Those men who are fluent in English may be too shy. I am a lot shyer around White women than I am Black women. Black men are portrayed so negatively in the media, that I feel a White woman may be intimidated or annoyed by my presence. However, I have to remember to step out of my comfort zone and have enough courage to approach this woman if I find her attractive etc.

Why do people of different backgrounds keep distance away from each other? For example, a nun or a Hindu woman may prefer to sit alone instead of sitting together.

I understand your question, however I think your example may be an isolated circumstance. See the answer to question 1, 8, and 10.

How do people really feel about inter-racial marriage, relationships, and children. I read an article stating that Asian men and Black African American women are most affected most by this subject, because they are less likely to date outside of their race. Is this true?

This is very interesting. Please send me an email telling me where I can find this article. I cannot comment about Asian men. I honestly do not know the answer. However, some Black African American women find it very difficult to date outside of their race. They also find it more difficult to date White men in particular. During the Trans Atlantic Slave Trade, Black women were considered the backbone of Black Negro families. These women endured rape by their White owners and were forced to “breed” and produce more slaves for the plantation. Slavery separated many children from their parents and Black women had to be mothers to younger slaves from various families when they were purchased by the plantation owners. This gave new meaning to nurturing, child rearing, and other motherhood activities. This caused the Black woman to be the staple that held Black Negro families together. This principle has been passed through the generations. Some Black women feel uncomfortable, and disgusted to date a White man because of this history. Others feel it is a betrayal to the African American ancestry to do this.

Why is it that the media stereotypes African Americans more than other races? They seem to portray them in a negative light and ignore other cultures.

Black African Americans are portrayed more negatively than other races in the media because they have derived from a society where this was the norm. Just because time has changed doesn’t mean people have changed. I have mentioned before that some minorities hold on to their ancestry and are careful not to engage in certain activities that may be defined as disrespectful to their race/culture. Therefore, we have to understand, (but not accept) other citizens who are descendants from people who believed they were superior to other races. For these descendants to believe otherwise, would disrespect their ancestry. We see traces of these beliefs in the media, on the internet, Hollywood, and other forms of print media.

Why can a white person without a degree get a good job, but a Black man can apply for the same job with a degree and be declined?

First, it may take more than a degree to get a job over someone without a degree. Some vocations value experience in higher regard than a college degree. However, if all else is equal between the applicants, then you have a more valid point. Please see the answer to question 7, and 13.

Why is it so hard for many people to welcome someone from a different culture into their own communities?

Please see the answer to question 1, and 13.

Once when I was about 7, I went to an after school program called the Peace Center. It was predominately Black and I was racially insulted almost every day, even though I am partially Black. Where do children learn such hate like that?

Please permit me to answer this question with a question. What person or people are consistently with children most of the time? The answer to this question will tell you where these children learned to hate. Although I have never visited this Peace Center, I am sure there were children who came from good families. Please remember that an overwhelming number of racial discrimination cases are filed by minorities against some person or entity of the White European American race. However, this does not mean that people of color cannot be racist, and perpetuate these beliefs with their children.

Why does anger exist between the Black race and the White race?

Please see the answer to question 2.

My friend’s mother has a boyfriend who is Native American. However, my friend is racist against Black African Americans and Hispanic/Latino Americans. These minorities have their share of racial troubles. What’s up with that?

I want you to ask him that question, and give me the answer so I can take credit for itJ. There are actually two answers to this question. The first one is called Racial Rationalization, and is a continuation of question 4. (Please read the answer to question 4 first.) When cultural diversity comes into your home and/or family you have three choices: A) Accept it…..Love everyone as yourself. B) Reject it…..Disown your loved one and banish him/her from your thoughtsJ. C) Rationalize it….This person is different from other people who look like him/her. Your friend has chosen “C”. I refer to people in this category as being a product of the “assumed likeness” phenomenon. This means that you automatically identify yourself with people who look like you, and therefore make the assumption that individuals that are different than you should think and act as you do. Your friend’s demeanor and the assumed likeness term can be illustrated by recognizing certain groups of people who may hate Black/African Americans but love Michael Jordan, Bill Cosby, and Will Smith. Why?? If you are a celebrity, or person of influence, it is believed by some that you are different from other people who look like you, and are more worthy of some respect. This same mentality will condone a relationship between a minority celebrity and a White female because they are not the same as the everyday Black/African Americans you see in the community. This same mentality is adopted by people who do not want to accept the new love interest, or reject their loved one. They choose to rationalize it by saying that this person is in my family now and therefore is different from other people who look like him/her. The second answer may be that Black/African Americans and Hispanic/Latino Americans are portrayed more negatively in the media than Native Americans. Also, the Native American has been treated with more respect and dignity after the hostile invasion of their lands by the American Calvary. Some Native Americans were given reservation lands and are permitted some federal/state tax leniency. Therefore, someone within a certain comfort zone can assume that Native Americans are cool because they are more accepted by society (i.e. White European Americans) and Blacks and Hispanic/Latinos are not as cool because the are not as accepted.

Why do we put so much value into names like the “N” word and other racial name calling? They are just words.

First, I do not accept the “N word” as a stand alone word, or as a political correct term. I think using the term “N word” is not necessary because some Black/African Americans use this term and yet we do not see an outcry from the Black/African American community. Therefore, non-Black/African Americans should not feel pressured to say “N word” when engaged in positive, educated, and candid discussions regarding race. Everyone knows the word that is being referred---Nigger. Now, I agree with you from a Christian perspective. I believe that I must endure negative names and words that have been said and will be said about me because I am a follower of Christ. This means that I have to accept that what happened to him may happen to me. In addition, non-believers or individuals from other religious walks of life understand that they must not let simple names and words affect them either. However, all of us must respect the origin of the word and its’ original intent. Some Black/African Americans are very much in touch with their ancestral heritage. This word reminds them of some unpleasant memories of the past. This means that when the word Nigger is used today, the assumption is that you value me the same way as the original creators of the word. No value at all.

Why is it that Blacks always say “the White man,” yet when I come to class there are only one or two Blacks in class? If any?

I am a little confused by this question. I am going to answer this as if you are asking why is there a small representation of Black/African Americans in your particular class. (If I am incorrect with the interpretation of your question, please email me with clarification.) First, we cannot assume that the small number of Black students in your class is an accurate reflection of the interest that Black/African Americans have with educating themselves. These students may not take your class because your instructor, Ms. Jackson, may be perceived as a hard teacherJ. Others may be studying a different academic major. In either case we will need to do some more research. However, there does exist a “White Man” philosophy within some Black communities. This philosophy is defined as: A Black person cannot succeed, or will find it extremely difficult to succeed because the White race is against him/her. Again, it is important that more is known about the specific person/community to form this opinion. Please read the answer to question #14 now. It is possible that the Black person in question #14 did not get this job because……… A) the color of his/her skin. B) he/she lacked some other requirement and/or experience in this field. In either case we need more information to answer the question. However, we can both agree that the first reason (letter A) is possible, and therefore it feeds the notion of a racist hiring practice. We cannot discount the fact that if the hiring manager is White, he/she may not want to see a successful Black African/American. I am of the opinion that this White Man philosophy is often overused and used improperly by some minorities.

Why do people assume that you are a racist?

I cannot say that people assume this at all. I hope people do not assume I am a racistJ. However, let me read into your question further. I believe that some White people may feel that people of color label them a racist very quickly. These same White Caucasians may feel at fault or unnecessarily burdened because of the cultural divide and negative race relations in our country. To that end, these people are quiet, non-responsive, or pressured to choose their words extremely carefully when engaged in candid racial discussions. These same people feel a need to defend their non-racist persona, because the color of their skin makes them a victim of ridicule. This is one reason, I founded Commit 2 Action and decided to become a motivation public speaker with specific emphasis on multicultural diversity. I do not accept this “White Man’s Burden.” True multiculturalism has to engage all groups and prompt and entrance/escape into all comfort zones. If any one group feels intimidated, or unconcerned you have failed in building a multicultural community. Please see the answer to question 2.

Do you think the Black race and the White race will ever let go of the past? They need to.

I respectfully disagree with you. I hope that no race ever lets go of its’ past and forget its’ ancestry. All of us, regardless of race must remember that our history, intelligence, and courage have formed the most powerful country in the free world. Although we are not perfect, we have come a long way. I am more inclined to agree with you if you were to say that some Blacks and Whites should stop living in the past.

I work as a cashier at K-Mart. I greeted a White lady and a Black man, who were in line and I began to sort their items for purchase. While scanning their items, The White lady must have asked me a question, but I did not hear her. The man asked me a question and I answered him. After their purchase was completed the man came back to the counter because I had forgotten to include an item he had purchased. At this time, he called me a racist and stated that I purposely did not give him the purchased item and he was going to talk to the manager. What do I do in that situation?

Always remember this….If someone leaves their house looking to be offended, they will be offended. All you need to do is apologize to the gentleman, and discuss the situation with the manager. Tell your manager that you will become more attentive at the cashier counter. (In saying this you are not admitting guilt, but showing that you are concerned about the accusation, and providing good customer service.) Unfortunately, common mistakes may be interpreted as racial incidents. However, if a pattern of questionable customer service practices starts to develop then you may have a problem. I trust that you do not get these complaints oftenJ.

Why is it more socially acceptable for Blacks to use racial slurs against Whites than it is for Whites to use them against Blacks?

This is my favorite question thus far! I emphatically disagree and am borderline hostile regarding this one-sided issue. It should not be acceptable! I support any movement, uprising, and/or revolt against this double standardJ. I am appalled that a Black comedian can go on stage and say what he wants, about anyone he wants, as long as he wants. However, if a White comedian says anything that rhymes with the word Nigger, he/she is cursed for life. This is completely unacceptable to me and does not aid the building of a multicultural community. Now let me get off my soapboxJ. In some strange way, it has become acceptable for Blacks to poke fun at the White race because of the negative treatment that Blacks have endured and continue to endure. Some people use this as a reminder to White Caucasians that although society has gotten better regarding race relations, there is still a long way to go. Conversely, there is a stigma regarding Whites using the same tactic. One reason is the mere fact that these slurs are more harmful to Blacks than Whites because Blacks had to accept the harsh treatment and brutality that accompanied these slurs. I am of the opinion, that there is nothing in the world that should be O. K. for one race and not another. This was a very good question!!

Why are there groups for just White women and Black women? Why not combine these groups and decrease the separation.

There are women support groups and organizations that are not defined by race, and include women from all cultural backgrounds. However, we must have certain support groups that are defined by race so that the group addresses specific needs and desires of that particular racial group. A Black female may have different problems, issues, and circumstances that may never affect a White female. Why?? Because we are all different, and there is nothing wrong with that. The problem arises when a group feels that they are superior to another group. You can get some more information by visiting the “Women @ Their Best” page on this website.

Why aren’t there more television shows with a mixture of Whites and Blacks, instead of shows that are all White or all Black?

I do not have a problem with this at all, and I would love to see Halle Barry on the television show “Friends,” or Samuel L. Jackson on the Soprano’sJ. I believe that T. V. is a reflection of our society. We see the same limited interaction on television and in everyday society regarding race relations. Try the following experiment: A) Excluding school and work, Name three other multicultural climates that you belong. B) Sit back and think about these climates. Are they really multicultural or do they include one or two different people. In other words, is the ratio of different racial groups an accurate reflection of the total number of people present. C) Compare the number of these true multicultural climates to the number of true multicultural t. v. shows, using the same formula in letter B. D) These numbers should be the same for both your personal climates and TV shows. E) As a further note, I would bet that the number(s) in letter D is between 1 and 3. In conclusion, if more of us good Americans were engaged in more multicultural social climates, we would see an increase in multiracial television programming, because it would be an accurate reflection of a multicultural society.

Why are people always accusing the other race saying “you” or “me” when it was ancestors and there is nothing we can do about it. It just causes more hurt and problems.

Ancestry is important because some Black African Americans are still victims of the deplorable treatment that their ancestors received. The overt racism that was common toward Black American ancestors has been replaced by covert racism that is directed towards their descendants. It is still racism. Therefore, accusations are stated using first person singular pronouns (i.e. you and me) because the behavior is still directed towards the same group of people. I respectfully disagree with your phrase…there is nothing we can do about it. We can do something. Together, we can build a multicultural community that appreciates, embraces, and is sensitive to cultural diversity. This would make our ancestors proud.

How do you overcome the situation of having to face someone who is prejudice and has power in the workplace?

This is an excellent question! I will have to give a broad answer because I do not know the specifics. (i.e. Is this person your boss? Is he/she threatening towards you? Does this person make racist remarks during meetings? What is your position at the company etc.? You need to accept the fact that for now you are employed in a hostile environment, and need to conduct yourself accordingly. A) Do not perpetuate stereotypes that this person may have about you. For example, if you are a Black African American, try not to be late for work, meetings, and other office gatherings. If you are going to be late, call or email this person in advance. B) Make yourself known to the person or persons responsible for training, and suggest the company or business consider a diversity training program. If there is no such person at the company, Perhaps, you can discuss this with other like minded coworkers and suggest this initiative. C) Stay positive. Do not let this person take away your confidence. D) Kill with Kindness. This does not mean kiss butt. However, there is some truth to the phrase; Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer. E) Reflect on your domestic and employment situation and determine if you need to look for another job. If I have not answered your question fully, Please contact me so that I can be more specific to your situation.

How do you get along with White people? For me it’s hard to deal with them because they seem like they’re always up to something else or are always scheming below the surface.

Please permit me to answer your question with a few questions. Have you left your comfort zone and really established a positive relationship with a White person? Have you befriended a White person only to have been stabbed in the back? Have you allowed yourself to really trust a White person and have them betray you? If you have answered yes to any of these questions, then I also know some Black African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, and Asian Americans that are just as deserving of this same label. If you answered no to any of these questions, then you have just prejudged an entire race of people. What do you say when you see a young Black African American male with his hair braided, wearing baggy pants, athle tic jersey, and Air Jordan basketball shoes, while driving a 2004 Chevrolet Escalade? Are you thinking…….He must sell drugs. The same way you feel about some White people, there are some White folks who feel the same about people who look like you. I choose to engage in social activities, candid conversations, and spend real time with anyone that I want to get to know or get along with. This will break down my stereotypes, and prejudices.

How does it feel to know that everyone stereotypes regardless if they try to prove they do not?

I have never had this problem because I have a simple exercise that proves everyone in the world stereotypes. Once, I perform the exercise with someone who is adamant about not being stereotypical, the person realizes that he/she was incorrect. The only way to eradicate stereotypical behavior is to eradicate your comfort zones. This can be very difficult for some people. Contact me if you want to know more about this stereotype exercise

What is the most harmful/dangerous comment you have ever heard during one of your discussions/lecturers?

This is a very good question. Honestly, I have not heard any harmful or dangerous comments during my presentations. The primary reason is because I know I am talking about a very sensitive subject and I am careful not to offend the audience. However, I am often criticized by other Black/African Americans regarding my position on multiculturalism. The reason for this is because multiculturalism has to include the opinions, discussions, sensitivity, appreciation, and life experiences of all cultures present. One group cannot feel at fault or unfairly burdened because they have power, money, and influence. Also, another group cannot feel authoritative, or as if they are the experts on diversity because they have been victims of insensitive treatment or discrimination.

How would you relate your experience in college with the way that you view college diversity today?

College diversity and more specifically race relations is better than it was when I was a college student. I attribute a lot of this to the rise of the controversial Hip-Hop culture. The Hip-Hop language, music, and lifestyle, that was once the staple of Black African Americans is now present and flourishing in White, Asian, Hispanic/Latino, and International communities. There is no other entity on the planet that has done more to improve race relations in our country in the last two decades than the controversial Hip-Hop movement. For example, as a student at Drake University, I had to find one of my “Black friends” if I wanted to borrow a certain rap cassette tape. (We did not have CD’s in the late ‘80’s) Now, a student can virtually knock on any door in the residence hall to borrow Ludicris, Jay-Z, or any other rap CD. Also, there are far more interracial couples on college campuses now than when I was in school.

When speaking of race relations do you feel that our society has evolved or regressed?

We have definitely evolved because no one is being bought, sold, and treated as property. However, it is important to realize that we have come a long way, but there is a lot more work to be done. The mere fact that you asked this question is proof of that.

Do you feel the choice you made to be beneficial to you as a Black male?

I am unsure of which choice or choices you are referring. I do not think I am that different from other people in this regard. To that end, I have made good choices that have been very beneficial to my overall growth and development. However, I have made bad choices that have haunted me College in some way or another. The important thing is I have learned a lot from those bad choices and have moved on.

Was your household hard or easy to grow up?

My household and overall child rearing years was very challenging. My parents purposely challenged me as a child and young adult in regards to life choices. This included gang violence, drug use, sex, spirituality and education. I was raised by three Black African Americans (My paternal grandmother was very much involved with my spiritual growth.) with Southern Black Baptist principles. They were from the deep South and lived through racial segregation. They migrated north to find work and chose to settle in the inner city of Chicago to raise a family. Discipline was strict and swift. Respect was the norm

While in school did you face a lot of racism?

No. I was respected by my professors, instructors, coaches, and peers. However, there were certain students who displayed a lack of appreciation and/or sensitivity for cultural diversity.

As an African American Male was it easier or harder to adjust to the Drake University atmosphere?

I was able to adjust to life at Drake because of my parents. This raised me, trained me, and prepared me to handle that atmosphere. I was expected to be a successful college student and failure was not an option.

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Higher Education Financial Planning

There are three areas where students can gain financial assistance to afford a college undergraduate bachelors degree. These areas are institutional aid/scholarships, government financial aid, and private scholarships. Institutional Aid/Scholarships are funds that a particular college/university will give a student to attend that specific college. These awards are usually given to students who are high academic achievers, athletes, and/or students who are participatory in student organizations/activities. In addition, students who have shown some volunteer experience and/or community service participation may also receive institutional aid/scholarships. College/University personnel use the admission application as the primary tool to evaluate students for these funds. However, some higher education institutions require students to complete a separate scholarship application. In addition, some colleges/universities host scholarship competitions for students to compete for higher level awards. Students may receive their institutional aid/scholarship award at the same time that they receive their acceptance letter to the college/university. Later, if the student applies for government financial assistance, they will receive an award letter that will show the institutional aid/scholarships, and it will contain their government financial aid awards. In short, this award letter will show the total financial assistance a student has to attend an institution of higher learning.

Government financial aid consists of funds that are awarded to students based on the family’s financial income. High school seniors should visit www.pin.ed.gov. to obtain their PIN (Personal Identification Number) prior to completing the financial aid form. It is imperative that the family complete their income taxes as soon as possible after January 1, of the student’s senior year of high school. High school seniors will need this information to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form can be found at www.fafsa.ed.gov. This form should also be completed as soon as possible after January 1, of the student’s senior year. Although the published deadline to complete this form is May 1, this is NOT the deadline a family should use.

You are competing against every senior in the country who is seeking financial aid. Therefore, students will need to apply EARLY because once the money has been depleted…that’s it!. The longer you procrastinate as time nears the May 1 deadline, the less money you will receive. I strongly suggest that the parents file their taxes, and the student complete the FAFSA by February 14 (Valentine’s Day) of the student’s senior year. If you complete these tasks by February 14, you should receive an award letter that will contain the total amount of your government financial aid, and any institutional aid/scholarships from each school you list by March 17 (St. Patrick’s Day). (The maximum amount of schools you can list on the FAFSA is 8.)

Private Scholarships are often unknown to parents/students, overlooked, and/or not taken seriously. You can receive these funds for community service, involvement in faith based institutions, parent’s employers, etc. In short, private scholarships consist of any funds awarded to a student by an outside agency. These outside agencies are usually not affiliated with a particular college/university, state government department, and/or federal government agency. However, it is expected that these funds are to be used to pay for college/university expenses. Each private scholarship has its’ own criteria, and deadlines. If you are awarded one of these scholarships you receive a two-party check made out to you and the particular college/university that you wish to attend. The student signs the check and gives it to their financial aid officer who applies it to the students total cost to attend the institution.

IF THE AMOUNT OF THE PRIVATE SCHOLARSHIPS IN COMBINATION WITH THE INSTITUTIONAL AID AND GOVERNMENT FINANCIAL AID EXCEED THE TOTAL COST TO ATTEND A COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY. THE INSTITUTION WILL DEDUCT THE LATTER TO EQUAL THE TOTAL COST OF THE COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY.

You will be surprised as to the types of scholarships you can obtain to attend a college/university. As a matter of fact, it might be a good idea to practice your duck calling. It could help you land a college scholarship. Perhaps you should buy an Arabian horse, get a ham radio, become a vegetarian, study the Klingon language, work on your knitting skills and/or research the family tree.There are college/university scholarship opportunities in all of these obscure areas.

Here Are a Few Others To Consider:

The Chick and Sophie Major Memorial Duck Calling Scholarship. Students who are talented in the feeding call, the comeback call and the mating call can earn $1,500.If you win, it might be a good idea to slack off on the mating call once you get a dorm room.

The William Zekan Memorial Scholarship. Applicants must demonstrate an interest in Arabian horses. Don’t laugh. The scholarship is worth $2,500. William Zekan Memorial Scholarship is awarded by the Arabian Horse Trust. Must demonstrate an interest in Arabian horses and financial need. Applicants must be high school seniors or college freshman. $2,500.00.

The Kor Memorial Scholarship, given by the Klingon Language Institute of Flourtown, Pa. Yes, it is for “Star Trek” fans who are fluent in Klingon. The application form doesn’t say anything about being able to hold your fingers apart.

The National Make it Yourself With Wool Competition. A $2,000 scholarship for students who can knit items from wool.

The Patrick Kerr Skateboard Scholarship. Open to skillful skateboarders.

The Billy Barty Foundation Scholarship for students 4-foot-10 or shorter. It’s only fair, since they have scholarships for tall people.

The Michigan Llama Association Scholarship. Open to students whose parents are members of the association.

The Martin J. Greer Sr. Memorial Scholarship. To be eligible, a student must belong to a ham radio family.

The University of Akron 8-Ball Scholarship. Not only offered to talented 8-ball players but also skilled 9-ball players.

The American Fire Sprinkler Association Scholarship. Open to students who write an essay on fire sprinkler safety.

The Van Valkenburg Memorial Scholarship. Offered to descendants of Lambert and Annetje Van Valkenburg, who lived in Amsterdam in the 1600s.

The Vegetarian Resources Group Scholarship. For students who have promoted vegetarianism in their school or community.

The Milk Mustache of the Year Award. It is based on academics, athletic performance, leadership and community service. You must be willing to sport a milk mustache.

The Bunny Y. Burns Scholarship. A $1,000 award to attend the University of Nevada in Las Vegas to learn how to be a bar maid. Remember, what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.

Lambert and Annetje Van Valkenburg Memorial Scholarship Must be a descendant by birth or legal adoption of a Van Valkenburg. Variations of the spelling of Van Valkenburg are permissible. $1,000.00.

Helen James Brewer Scholarship. Must be a descendant of a Confederate soldier, sailor or marine. Must be from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee or Virginia. Must study Southern history or literature at an accredited college or university. $1,000.00.

American Fire-Sprinkler Association Scholarship. You must write an essay about a successful fire sprinkler activation in your town, area or state. $3,000.00.

National Rifle Association Scholarships. Must be an NRA Junior Member. Must attend one NRA basic firearm training course, earn at least one rating (Pro-Marksman, Marksman, Sharpshooter, Expert or Distinguished Expert) through the NRA Marksmanship Qualification Program, and submit an essay on Why I Became Involved in the Shooting Sports.$5,000.00.

Columbia 300 John Jowdy Scholarship. Must be a high school senior, graduating in the current year, who is actively involved in the sport of bowling. $500.00.

Duck Brand Duct Tape-Stuck at Prom-Scholarship Contest. Awarded to a couple attending a high school prom that makes the best costume out of Duct Tape. $3,000.00.

The K2TEO Martin J. Green Sr. Memorial Scholarship. Preference given to a student ham from a Ham (amateur radio) family. $1,000.00.

New England Chapter-National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance Scholarship Must be a single New England high school senior who is overweight, with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Must study in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island or Vermont. $500.00.

To start your scholarship search, please go to www.finaid.org, www.fastweb.com, www.gocollege.com, www.supercollege.com, and complete the scholarship profile. After doing this, you will be able to receive scholarships notifications through email that will match your profile

SPECIALIZED PRIVATE SCHOLARSHIPS

Alfred and Esther Eggerling Scholarship
American Baptist College Scholarship
ASNT Engineering Undergraduate Awards
Atlas Shrugged Essay Competition
Cesar Chavez Memorial Education
Charles R. Ford Scholarship
Coca-Cola Scholars Program
College Fee Waiver Program
Columbia 300 John Jowdy Scholarship
Datatel Scholarships
Dr. Harry Britenstool Scholarship Fund
Eric Dostie Memorial College Scholarship
Guideposts Young Writers Contest
Harry and Lenora Richardson Scholarship
Herbert Lehman Scholarships

HGA Friends of Junior Golf Scholarship
Hildegard Lash Merit Scholarship
Idamae Cox Otis Scholarship
Jaycee War Memorial Fund Scholarship Program

PRIVATE SCHOLARSHIPS

www.collegenet.com
www.embark.com
www.usnews.com/usnews/home.htm
www.scholarships.com,
www.collegeboard.com

Scholarships for Women

Talbot Foundation Scholarship
Women must be 35 or older

American Association of University Women

Sorry guys!! Only females can apply for the two scholarships listed above!

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR STUDENTS OF COLOR/MINORITY SCHOLARSHIPS
Ron Brown Scholar Program
Zeta Phi Beta General Undergraduate Scholarships
Blacks at Microsoft (BAM)

Black/African American Students are encouraged to apply for the scholarships listed above.

RETURNING ADULT STUDENTS
This site contains scholarships for students seeking to return to college to finish an undergraduate degree program. Students must have started a college/university program, but withdrew prior to completing the program.

UNDERGRADUATE TRANSFER SCHOLARSHIP
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship honors excellence by supporting outstanding community college students with financial need to transfer and complete their bachelor degrees at ANY four-year colleges/university in the nation.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT LOAN PROGRAM (ISLP)
This site contains financial information for college students seeking to study abroad. Also, there is assistance for international students seeking to study within the United States.

DEBORAH PARTRIDGE WOLF INTERNATIONAL FELLOWSHIP
This site contains fellowships for students seeking a graduate degree and/or professional degree. This includes masters degree, law degree, doctorate degree, and/or Ph.d. Consequently, students seeking a graduate degree may be eligible for the same financial awards listed above for undergraduate students.

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR WHITE MALES
This scholarship is for White /European American males who are at least 25% caucasian.

RESOURCE GUIDE OF SUMMER OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALANA UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS.
ALANA is an acronym for African American, Latino/a, and Native American people. This site contains a resource guide for ALANA undergraduate students seeking internships, research opportunites, and leadership development programs during the summer. Please be advised that you have to be a current college/university student to take advantage of these resources.

Computing and Engineering Scholarships

Children Impacted by Crime Scholarship Funds

COMMIT 2 ACTION

636 590 6538

Past Events

Questions About Race

Why is it so hard for people to welcome diversity?

Why is there so much racial tension between the Black race and the White race?

Why are some Southerners still very racist?

Why are people against interracial couples/marriage?

Why is there still such an ethnic division throughout America?

Do you think it is essential that ethnic groups stay self-contained in our society to maintain a sense of cultural identity, or is it more important that they all integrate for the American “melting pot?”

Why do most minorities favor affirmative action even though it is viewed as another form of racism?

Why do Americans have to have personal space while other countries mainly Western Europeans are more open and touchy feely?

Why are other countries more open about sex, and Americans treat it as a taboo subject?

When I walk through the halls or out in public I find that a lot of Hispanic men stare at women. Why??

Why do people of different backgrounds keep distance away from each other? For example, a nun or a Hindu woman may prefer to sit alone instead of sitting together.

How do people really feel about inter-racial marriage, relationships, and children. I read an article stating that Asian men and Black African American women are most affected most by this subject, because they are less likely to date outside of their race. Is this true?

Why is it that the media stereotypes African Americans more than other races? They seem to portray them in a negative light and ignore other cultures.

Why can a white person without a degree get a good job, but a Black man can apply for the same job with a degree and be declined?

Why is it so hard for many people to welcome someone from a different culture into their own communities?

Once when I was about 7, I went to an after school program called the Peace Center. It was predominately Black and I was racially insulted almost every day, even though I am partially Black. Where do children learn such hate like that?

Why does anger exist between the Black race and the White race?

My friend’s mother has a boyfriend who is Native American. However, my friend is racist against Black African Americans and Hispanic/Latino Americans. These minorities have their share of racial troubles. What’s up with that?

Why do we put so much value into names like the “N” word and other racial name calling? They are just words.

Why is it that Blacks always say “the White man,” yet when I come to class there are only one or two Blacks in class? If any?

Why do people assume that you are a racist?

Do you think the Black race and the White race will ever let go of the past? They need to.

Why is it more socially acceptable for Blacks to use racial slurs against Whites than it is for Whites to use them against Blacks?

Why are there groups for just White women and Black women? Why not combine these groups and decrease the separation.

Why aren’t there more television shows with a mixture of Whites and Blacks, instead of shows that are all White or all Black?

Why are people always accusing the other race saying “you” or “me” when it was ancestors and there is nothing we can do about it. It just causes more hurt and problems.

How do you overcome the situation of having to face someone who is prejudice and has power in the workplace?

How do you get along with White people? For me it’s hard to deal with them because they seem like they’re always up to something else or are always scheming below the surface.

How does it feel to know that everyone stereotypes regardless if they try to prove they do not?

What is the most harmful/dangerous comment you have ever heard during one of your discussions/lecturers?

How would you relate your experience in college with the way that you view college diversity today?

When speaking of race relations do you feel that our society has evolved or regressed?

Do you feel the choice you made to be beneficial to you as a Black male?

Was your household hard or easy to grow up?

While in school did you face a lot of racism?

As an African American Male was it easier or harder to adjust to the Drake University atmosphere?

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Higher Education Financial Planning

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