SPARK Program details | Transform Your Future

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.

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 will open on March 21, 2023 PST

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

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

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

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

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

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

Currently be involved with, and endorsed by, one of the listed community partners, or be a single parent to a current Beedie Luminary Student.

Please reach out to your existing contact or case worker at one of the below listed Community Partners to obtain a Link and Access Code to the Application Portal. If you are a single parent to one of our Beedie Luminaries students, the portal access has been posted on the Beedie Luminaries Digital Community. We are grateful to the following Community Partners for helping us to identify suitable scholarship candidates for the SPARK Program.