#United States #Washington, D.C. #Securus Technologies #ScholarCHIPS #15th Anniversary

Celebrating 15 Years of ScholarCHIPS

Fifteen years ago, ScholarCHIPS was established on a fundamental principle: that a child's future should not be dictated by their parent's incarceration. Tomorrow, this vision will be celebrated at the Annual Awards Ceremony held at the prestigious National Press Club, where the organization will honor its largest and most diverse cohort of scholars to date, representing Washington, D.C., and eleven other states. This gathering serves as a profound testament to the transformative power of education in the face of adversity.

ScholarCHIPS is a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit dedicated to providing college scholarships, mentoring, and peer support to children of incarcerated parents. By enabling these children to complete their college education, the organization paves the way for a brighter future.

Bridging the Gap with Technology

In alignment with its mission, ScholarCHIPS has partnered with Securus Technologies, a company that has changed the dynamics of communication within correctional facilities. Since 2024, Securus has played a vital role by making scholarship information accessible to incarcerated parents through over 550,000 secure tablets made available in prisons nationwide. This initiative allows parents with tablet access to not only learn about scholarship opportunities but also to share vital information with their children, thus facilitating connections to educational resources that would support their journeys.

“Fifteen years ago, I launched this organization because I believed every child of an incarcerated parent deserves access to the same educational and career opportunities,” stated Yasmine Arrington Brooks, Founder and Executive Director of ScholarCHIPS. “Seeing the scholars that we honor today reflects resilience and potential in every young person, underscoring their ability to chase their dreams when provided with the right support. Our collaboration with Securus has allowed us to reach families we previously could not, significantly expanding our impact.”

Expanding Opportunities

Since its inception, ScholarCHIPS has distributed more than $700,000 in scholarships and various support services to over 120 scholars. The organization’s commitment extends beyond financial aid, offering mentoring, mental health support, emergency assistance, technological tools, professional development, and a robust alumni network designed to aid students through college and into successful careers.

As the organization’s reach has grown, so too has the demand for scholarships. Applications have surged by more than 900% since the program became available via Securus tablets, effectively creating a vital link between families and educational resources, regardless of where they are located. Shamia Lodge, Director of Community Engagement at Securus Technologies, emphasized, “Each application represents a family striving for a better future. When a parent learns about a scholarship and can relay that opportunity to their child, technology becomes not just a tool but a bridge to a brighter future.”

In addition to increasing access to scholarship applications, Securus has pledged $50,000 towards funding these scholarships. This collaborative approach highlights the significance of information access in fostering educational opportunities, ensuring that incarceration does not limit a child’s future.

Moving Forward

Together, ScholarCHIPS and Securus are dedicated to reshaping the narratives surrounding children with incarcerated parents, affirming that they too can achieve their academic dreams. Additional details about ScholarCHIPS can be found at ScholarCHIPS Fund, while information about Securus Technologies is available at Securus Technologies.

About ScholarCHIPS

ScholarCHIPS is a national nonprofit organization committed to supporting college-bound students affected by parental incarceration through various means, including scholarships, mentoring, mental health resources, emergency assistance, technology, professional growth, and a lifelong alumni support network. Since its establishment, ScholarCHIPS has invested heavily in its scholars, enabling many to overcome their circumstances and pursue opportunities that help them realize their potential.

About Securus Technologies

Securus Technologies, an industry leader in correctional communications, provides innovative solutions to over 1,800 correctional agencies nationwide. Their offerings are designed to enhance public safety and optimize operational efficiency, making essential resources accessible to both incarcerated individuals and their families. For more information, visit Securus Technologies online to explore their full range of services.