South Shore Foundation Grants Funds for CNA Scholarships
August 2003

Funds for CNA Scholarships Advocates for the Elderly receive a $1,375 grant from the South Shore Foundation to finance additional scholarships to train Marion County residents to become certified nursing assistants. Shown are (from left) Lois Torgersen, AFTE board member, Jodie Jeffrey, South Shore Foundation trustee, and Berny Tott, AFTE president. Anyone interested in obtaining a scholarship should apply at Arkansas State University Mountain Home with the Center for Business, Industry, and Workforce Development, 210 First National Hall or call 870-508-6106.

Advocates for the Elderly has received a $1,375 grant from South Shore Foundation for Certified Nursing Assistant scholarships. Trustees of the foundation approved the grant in June. The scholarships are for residents of Marion County.

Lois Torgersen, of Advocates for the Elderly, requested the grant funds because there continues to be a shortage of CNAs in the Twin Lakes area, she said. "We are attempting to help motivated individuals receive training who will become dedicated CNAs and add stability and continuity to the health care delivery system in our area."

Scholarship applicants may fill out forms at Arkansas State University Mountain Home at the Center for Business, Industry and Workforce Development. Each applicant must obtain two letters of recommendation to begin the process of seeking a scholarship. The training program leads to a state certification test with the cost totaling approximately $400. A committee of members of Advocates for the Elderly interviews applicants and awards the scholarships.

Interested persons may call Phil Garner or Lynn Jacobs at 508-6106 or go by 210 First National Hall on the ASUMH campus in Mountain Home.

Mrs. Torgersen told the South Shore Foundation trustees that all previous recipients of CNA scholarships through Advocates for the Elderly (AFTE) are employed in nursing homes and hospitals in the area. Each year, the AFTE recognizes outstanding CNAs with cash awards and plaques, and one is selected CNA of the Year. AFTE works with nursing homes to enhance the position of CNAs and raise their importance in the public eye.

AFTE is an independent, all-volunteer group interested in serving as advocates for the elderly, especially the frail elderly. AFTE works to prevent elderly abuse and neglect, to inform the public about problems the elderly face and about resources for good care. For more information about AFTE, call Mrs. Torgersen at 870-425-7810.

The South Shore Foundation is the charitable arm of NATCO, the telecommunications company serving a 658 square-mile area in Marion and Boone counties. The foundation makes grants to nonprofit organizations to advance education, preserve the environment, develop the local economy, and assist in community betterment. For more information or a grant application, call toll-free 800-775-6682.