A group of women in the Brainerd Lakes Area quietly did something big this spring.

The Brainerd Lakes Area Women of Today partnered with the Central Lakes College Foundation to establish a brand-new scholarship — designed specifically for non-traditional students who are either female or a single parent. It's the kind of grassroots support that doesn't make headlines everywhere, but changes lives right here at home.

This year's first recipient is Jaimie Johnson of Brainerd, who is working toward her Pre-Social Work Transfer Pathway A.S. Degree at CLC. She's studying to give back to the same kind of community that just gave to her.

Jon Aga, CLC's Associate Vice President of Advancement, put it well: "Their support not only makes our students' educational journeys more affordable, but also demonstrates their commitment to supporting our next generation of community leaders."

Gerrin Dehn, Membership Vice President of the Brainerd Lakes Area Women of Today, shared what the group means to her: "Without having met the great gals in this organization, my eyes would never have been opened to the amazing things we have in our community. Being able to help someone go to college to further their career is an amazing opportunity — and I look forward to our organization helping more in the future."

That last line says it all: this is just the beginning.

The Brainerd Lakes Area Women of Today believe in growth, service, and fellowship. And now, they believe in Jaimie Johnson's future — and the futures of the students who will come after her.

To learn more about scholarships at Central Lakes College or to support student success, visit clcmn.edu/scholarships or call the CLC Foundation at 218-855-8129.

Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash