Meredith Loving Connections Fund
Purpose and Background
Meredith Huffman was a passionate supporter of VEP, as was her mother and former tutor, Sharon. Meredith’s philanthropic vision included championing organizations and people who focused on community service and charity. Through her professional guidance, Meredith helped VEP to project far into the future; to prepare for ideas that had not yet been conceptualized. She asked VEP to “think beyond ourselves and envision ways in which we could ensure that VEP would be available for new English speakers in the year 2046”– 30 years from VEP’s 30th-year milestone.
Since the establishment of the Meredith Loving Connections Fund in 2017, upon Meredith’s final battle with cancer and a memorial donor advised gift from Capacity for Change, VEP has received contributions with the intention to share such funds with students.
The Fund is considered an Executive Director discretionary fund, rather than an endowment fund, so that it can be used in real time, for real needs of VEP’s active students.
Who Is Eligible for an Award?
Active VEP students.
What are the Requirements to Apply?
- Actively meeting with a VEP tutor for a minimum of 12 months.
- Completion of the Meredith Loving Connections Fund application.
- Demonstration of how the award will assist the student in advancing their personal, educational, or professional goals.
- Recommendation from the student’s tutor may also be considered, though it is not required.
How Can a Student Access the Application?
The application is on the VEP website and can be translated into most languages. The application may be completed online or printed and mailed to the Executive Director.
When are Applications Accepted?
Applications may be accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year.
What is the Size/Amount of a Typical Award?
The amount of the award will vary according to a student’s intended use, but will not exceed $600.
When are Awards Distributed?
The intention of the award distribution is to honor Meredith Huffman’s life in July of each year. The VEP committee shall retain the ability to recommend grants at least annually at the close of each fiscal year (June 30) or throughout the year, based on student need, qualified applications, and available fund reserves.
Future of the Fund:
The Meredith Loving Connections Fund is a discretionary fund intended to help people. The Fund will remain effective for as long as possible, while being responsive to the changing needs of active learners.
Click here to access the Meredith Loving Connections application.
For more information, email Terri Potrako at terri.potrako@volunteerenglish.org.