We Believe in You! is the subtitle of The Banff Opportunity Fund, offered by The Western Canada Ski Foundation. With the financial support of The Banff Community Foundation and The Marika Laub Trust Fund, assistance is awarded to local residents who meet minimum criteria and who are planning to attend a recognized academic, technical, artistic or athletic school.

In 2007, Brenda Varnum applied to the Banff Opportunity Fund and she describes the impact of this support.

“Back in 2006, I made the scary decision to go to university and get a four year nursing degree.” Brenda Varnum declares. “Wow! After 16 years in the workforce I was going to be a full time student. This was a daunting prospect. I had wonderful support from my spouse, family and friends. However, love does not pay tuition or the utility bill. One of the hardest parts of making this decision was realizing that I would be spending money, not earning it. I struggled with how I was going to finance all this and in the process, I know I ran out of self- esteem. When I decided to apply for support from the Banff Opportunity Fund I found myself wondering if I was good enough. I had to work hard to convince myself to write the letter promoting “me”.

“Well… two years later I am feeling a little better for myself. I know “I’m good enough.” The strong social support of my friends and family is still there and the financial support from organizations like the Banff Opportunity Fund has contributed more than just money. In my nursing program we have been taught that social support networks are important to achieving a patient’s health goals. Well, I believe that applies to educational goals as well. I found that having community- based support made me feel more confident and helped me feel comfortable in pursuing my goals.

“The hardest part of school was sending in that first application. The second hardest was filling out scholarship applications. If you are strong enough to do the first part, know that you are strong enough to do the second. Know that you are good enough, worthy and capable; know that there are people out there ready and willing to add to your support networks!”

For more information, click here Banff Opportunity Fund. Evaluation criteria include financial need; community & volunteer involvement; and demonstration of artistic, academic, musical, creative, leadership, and/or athletic ability. DEADLINE: October 21, 2009