I want to start off by telling everyone I am still here even though I have not written a little while. I have started a new job and trying to do some other things.
I know many of you know I have been writing a book about Mari’s life and the grief journey that followed. The book is done. However, here is where the problem lies. I have found an editor that I believe will be perfect for this book. Unfortunately, the price is quite high for me to pay her. I need to raise about $8,000 to have it done.
Right now I am looking at how I can make the book smaller so the cost is less. Then I will start looking into fundraising to help with the cost.
I have also come to a decision with regards to where I want either some or the majority of the profits from the book to go. I am going to start a non-profit organization in honor of Mari that will be a scholarship program for those individuals who would like to become teachers for those children who have autism. For an individual to receive a scholarship through this organization they will first have to submit an essay stating why they would like to receive a scholarship. I will be personally reading every submission. I want each scholarship given to be a full ride scholarship. I will of course do my research to find out what the average cost across the country is to attend college. I do not want anyone to be stuck going only to a state school. However, we will not be paying for a full ride to like Harvard. I want individuals to be able to have the opportunity to attend a private college if possible. And when I say full ride I am talking about tuition, boarding, fees, and books. The individuals who are awarded these scholarships must provide proof either each semester or year that they are currently enrolled in a special education program for autism. Then after the individual graduates they must show they have gotten a job teaching children with autism for a minimum of 2 years. If this criteria is not all met they will then be required to pay back the entire scholarship. Of course, this is all laid out for each individual before they ever receive the scholarship so there are no surprises.
I have wanted to start a scholarship program in Mari’s name ever since she passed away. I know there are just not enough autism teachers out there today. I also know it takes a very special person to do this. If we can find those type of people out there today I would love to help ease the burden for those who need it that way they do not have to take out a lot of loans.
So far, those are my thoughts on Mari’s book and what I would like to see happen. Please let me know what you think about this. I would love to hear your thoughts.
This sounds so good! It will be a blessing to someone! I HAVE heard it said that if someone has some investment in the cost they will be more invested. Although it would be perfect for someone who has no other way of going – I think there are a lot of people who would be great teachers who will not be able to afford college these days! Another thought would be that the scholarship be for the last two years, when person is likely to have decided they want to teach children with autism. Many young people do not KNOW what they are interested in teaching until they are already in a program because they do not have the contact with children with autism until they are doing external programs, usually starting their sophomore year. Unless it is a person with personal contact with a close family member or friend with autism they may not know until their last two years what they are interested in. You COULD also consider having it be for someone who wants to get extra classes in special education.
Just a thought that you may want to check with colleges to see what their coursework is that prepares teachers for children with autism. And you may want to see what the states require for a teacher with that specialty. I THINK that in Illinois there is not a separate license for teachers who specialize in teaching children with autism.
just some thoughts, – I really think this is a WONDERFUL way to honor Mari’s life AND to help a deserving person (or people)! You have a wonderful weekend! I continue to pray for you each day! Sylvia
I think you are absolutely right. I know I will be checking into a lot of different things so that I can get all the specifics laid down before I offer the scholership program. However, I know it will all work out in the end.
Thank you for you prayers.