Purpose: The Bellingham Bay Swim Team (BBST) Swimmer Assistance Fund is designed to assist families in covering monthly dues for their swimmer(s) who demonstrate financial need due to a short term hardship. The fund aims to ensure that every swimmer has the opportunity to participate and develop their skills, regardless of financial constraints.
1. Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements to be considered for the scholarship:
- The swimmer must be a current member of the Bellingham Bay Swim Team.
- Families must demonstrate short-term financial need.
- Applicants must be in good standing with BBST, with no disciplinary actions or outstanding balances beyond 60 days past due. If experiencing hardship, please reach out to the board as soon as possible!
- Applicants must not already be receiving support from Blue Skies for Children or other related organizations.
- The swimmer must have an attendance percentage of at least 75% for the 30 day period prior to application for scholarship funds.
2. Application Process
- Submission: Applications are to be submitted through an online form or by mail to BBST’s administration.
- Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
- Documentation: Applicants must provide supporting documentation, which may include:
- Proof of income (e.g., tax returns, pay stubs, W-2 forms).
- A written statement explaining financial circumstances and why assistance is needed.
- Optional: Any additional information that supports the need for financial assistance (e.g., medical bills, unemployment status).
3. Awarding Process
- Review Panel: BBST board members will review applications.
- Confidentiality: All personal and financial information submitted will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality.
- Criteria: When funds are available, scholarships will be awarded based on financial need, eligibility criteria listed above and history with the team if applicable.
4. Scholarship Award
- Amount: The scholarship may cover up to a percentage of monthly dues, based on the needs of the applicant and the available funds. Awards may vary from partial assistance to full coverage.
- Duration: Scholarships are typically awarded for a 1-month or 3-month period, with the possibility of renewal. Families must reapply at the end of the award period if continued assistance is needed.
- Notification: Applicants will be notified via email or mail regarding the outcome of their application within 2–4 weeks of submission.
5. Termination or Revocation
- BBST reserves the right to revoke a scholarship if the recipient fails to meet attendance, participation, or behavioral standards set by the team.
- Scholarships may also be terminated if it is found that false information was provided during the application process.
7. Funding and Donations
- The BBST Swimmer Assistance Fund is currently supported through monthly contributions from members that have elected to participate.
By submitting a scholarship application, families agree to the terms and conditions outlined above. The goal of the Bellingham Bay Swim Team Swimmer Assistance Fund is to make swimming accessible to all, regardless of financial circumstances, and to support athletes in their development both in and out of the water.
Contact Information: For questions or assistance with the application process, please contact the BBST Board of Directors - [email protected].
