Greater Riverside Dollars for Scholars was established in 1994 by a local businessman and philanthropist, Doug Wardle. With the backing and influence of Art Pick, CEO and President of the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce Doug put together the original Board of Directors, which included representatives from the local K-12 school districts, higher education, the business community and non-profit organizations. 
 

As the chapter developed it became a clearinghouse for local organizations and individuals that had scholarship programs with money to give away but not necessarily the time or knowledge to carry out the application, selection and award process.  In addition, two board members served at the regional level at the California Dollars for Scholars office:  Supervisor John Tavaglione served on the regional board for several years and Jerry Cornelison was on the staff helping to establish new chapters in the southern California area.

The first scholarships for $500 each were awarded in 1995 to two students graduating from Norte Vista High School. Over the years, approximately $2 million has been awarded to over 1,400 students from 20 comprehensive high schools and special schools. 
 

In 2008 personal circumstances dictated that Doug Wardle move to the east coast. The board, while dwindling in numbers still managed to award 113, 80, and 96 scholarships over three years when in 2010 a new board under the leadership of interim president, Kathy Wright, was formed. Rakel Engles now leads a board of 16 members who have brought new energy and ideas to the chapter.

 

Greater Riverside Dollars for Scholars | P.O. Box 1178 | Riverside, California 92502-1178