EDWIN J. GREGSON FOUNDATION

PURPOSE

In 1998, the California Thoroughbred Trainers (CTT) Board established a nonprofit foundation in ongoing efforts to develop programs to benefit and enhance the quality of life of California's backstretch workers and their families. In 2000, the foundation was renamed in memory of veteran trainer and past CTT president Edwin J. Gregson, who was the initial driving force in the creation of the foundation.

SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Understanding the desire to pursue higher learning and the discouraging problem of lack of funds, the scholarship was created to aid individuals fulfill their goals in obtaining the education necessary to develop enlightenment, growth, and achievement.

The Edwin J. Gregson Foundation has made a commitment to assist financially needy backstretch workers in securing resources necessary to attend college.

SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

The Edwin J. Gregson Foundation (EJGF) has established a scholarship program to encourage students to stay in school, to succeed academically, and to continue their education after high school.

The program will focus on the young children of eligible families and will encourage these children to focus on a college preparatory curriculum. Chosen students will be assigned a mentor and encouraged with the promise of financial aid if they eventually enter a college program.

ELIGIBLE CALIFORNIA BACKSTRETCH WORKERS

Eligible backstretch workers are defined as those persons who engage in occupations directly relating to the physical care of horses at California racetracks or approved auxiliary stable areas. Eligible occupations include: Assistant trainers, foremen, grooms, hot walkers, exercise riders, and pony riders. Workers must hold a current CHRB license, be employed a minimum of five (5) years in an eligible backstretch occupation, and be in good standing with the CHRB, CTHF, & CTT. The eligibility age of the children will range from 11 to 21.

REQUIREMENT SHOWING FINANCIAL NEED

Applicants must submit most recent pay stubs for a two-month period. Also, needed will be a brief written account detailing how the family's financial circumstances warrants assistance. This should include information such as a simple schedule listing monthly expenses, income of entire household, the total number of family members, etc.

CRITERIA

Must meet eligibility requirements as defined by the EJGF Scholarship Fund
Must complete a EJGF Scholarship Application
Must be a resident of California
Must be enrolled or accepted for enrollment as a regular student working toward a degree or certificate in an eligible program
The applicant will be asked to send a summary describing the use of the scholarship
The applicant must provide at least two letters of recommendation from anyone of choice; for example, teacher, relative, mentor, etc.
The scholarship may be used at a community college, university, or educational institute of the recipient's choice
Students must provide transcripts upon request
Must show financial need
Scholarship funds may only be used for tuition & fees, books & supplies relevant to program of study, or room & board