The Bigfork Ladies Service Club is taking applications for its annual vocational and technical education scholarships.

Since 2017, Bigfork Ladies Service Club has awarded $38,000 to deserving students entering the vocational, technical or trade school program. Some of these students have completed programs in culinary arts, diesel tech, cosmetology, welding and precision machining, and electrical linework education. 

These days, many students are considering vocational, technical and trades for a post-high school education, and upon completion of a certificate, license, degree or training are finding the job market wide open for employment and not burdened with heavy school loans. 

Years ago, Bigfork Ladies Service Club wanted to make this a possibility for graduating Bigfork seniors, as well as students that have graduated in the previous two years. The 2025 scholarship will consider graduation years 2025, 2024 and 2023. This gives students that are still uncertain on the path they will take an opportunity to apply. 

Last year, the scholarship program received a sizable donation from an anonymous donor which allows the committee to include multiple scholarships. 

The Flathead community can also help raise funds and satisfy their taste buds every August by buying a huckleberry shake at the Flathead County Fair. Look for the booth with the ladies in purple making fresh shakes for all to enjoy. 

Applicants for the Bigfork Ladies Service Club Scholarship will need to include the following in the packet: 

- Certificate, license, degree, or training you are seeking. 

- A list of relative classes you have taken that support your goal. 

- A short essay that describes your career goals and how your educational plans meet that goal.  

- A short narrative describing a personal or family circumstances affecting your need for a scholarship. 

- What extracurricular activities have you participated in including work, volunteering or community service. Also list any hobbies or interests 

- A written reference from a non-family member. 

The BLSC scholarship is not based on grade point average, but on a desire and commitment to furthering an education in a trade, technical or vocational program.  A Bigfork, Montana address is also required. 

A dedicated committee of 15 reviews each application and decides by consensus on the recipients. 

The application due date is April 15 at 5 p.m. Applications are available at Bigfork High School. For information, email blscscholarship@gmail.com or call Terri Hayden, Scholarship Chair at 307-690-7324.