In 2021, we launched the Single Parent Award for Resilience and Knowledge (SPARK) and welcomed 15 inspiring recipients. In 2022, we welcomed an additional 17 SPARK recipients to the program embarking on their post-secondary studies at nine different universities, colleges, and trade schools across British Columbia.
“I have overcome so many challenges as a single parent with two kids. Although I thought my dreams would live on with my children and others, I am relieved that I can do something for myself and further lead my children as well as give back to my community.” - Nishani Sinthiya Rajkumar, 2021 Beedie Luminaries Beedie Luminaries SPARK Recipient.

Christie & David Garofalo Award

Thanks to a generous donation from Christie and David Garofalo, each year a recipient within the Beedie Luminaries SPARK Program is presented with the Christie & David Garofalo Award. This is not an additional award, but rather a designation to acknowledge and recognize the challenges and dreams of single parents who want to further their education and provide more opportunities for their families.

ARE YOU READY?

Everyone has the ability to shine bright and fulfill their potential. Develop what lies within. We are here to provide the support you need.

The Beedie Luminaries SPARK Program recognizes the challenges and dreams of single parents who want to further their education and provide more opportunities for their families but are facing financial adversity. The recipients join a strong, diverse, well-connected support network of Beedie Luminaries students and future program alumni, as well as community leaders and mentors.

  • $44,000 per full-time student / $11,000 per year up to 4-years of funding
  • $33,000 per part-time student / $5,500 per year up to 6-years of funding
  • 'Stay on Track' Student Coach
  • Access to Mentors
  • Peer Support Groups
  • Digital Community
  • Workshops & Events
  • Career Guidance

Applications for Cohort 2023 are now closed.

Eligibility requirements

To be considered for the 2023 program you must meet the basic eligibility requirements:
Residency

A Canadian citizen or permanent resident since 2020, residing in British Columbia.

Fit

A single parent, 19 years of age or older, with a high-school diploma (or equivalent).

Intent

Plan to be a full-time or part-time student and use funding for post secondary education.

Institution

Apply to, or be currently enrolled at, one of the eligible post-secondary institutions.

Financial Adversity

Demonstrate your and/or your family's financial adversity, and how it has affected you.

Engagement

Be a single parent, and receive endorsement from your employer, school, or a community organization.

How it Works

Single Parents

APPLYMarch 21, 2023 to April 21, 2023

APPLY

Applications can apply for the scholarship through our secure online site.

SELECTApril - May 2023

SELECT

Applications will be evaluated by the selection committee. Top applicants will be invited for interviews.

AwardJUNE 2023

AWARD

SPARK Cohort 2023 is announced

Please see Program Guidelines for the complete eligibility criteria and program details.

See program guidelines

Please note the Beedie Luminaries scholarship programs for Grade 12, SPARK and RISE are limited to a maximum of 2 people in the same family (regardless of home address).
 
 

Thank You

We are grateful to the following Community Partners for helping us to identify suitable scholarship candidates for the SPARK Program.

SPARK Partners

Atira Women’s Resource Society
BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres
BCCF
Family Services North Shore
Family Services of Greater Vancouver
Healthiest Babies Possible
ISS of BC
Minerva
Mom2Mom
Mother’s Matter Centre
New Relationship Trust
SOICS
The Cridge Centre for the Family
Up With Women
Urban Native Youth Association
Vancouver Aboriginal Child and Family Services Society
Westcoast Family Centres
YMCA of Greater Vancouver
YMCA of Northern BC
YMCA of Southern Interior BC
YWCA Metro Vancouver

Applications for Cohort 2023 are now closed.

 

The Faces Of Change