Pinnacol Foundation Nearly Doubles Scholarships

“Many of these students have faced significant obstacles in their pursuit of higher education because of their parents’ injury,” said Carole Sumption, chair of the Pinnacol Foundation Board of Directors. “Awarding these scholarships will not only benefit 136 students, but also Colorado businesses that rely on a skilled and educated workforce.”

After a serious workplace accident, families often struggle financially, physically and emotionally. The children may need to take on more responsibility than their peers – from working part-time jobs to taking care of a parent who is unable to work. The Pinnacol Foundation was created in 2000 to assist those families after a workplace accident.

Since the Pinnacol Foundation’s inception, it has awarded more than 600 scholarships to the children of injured workers. The average scholarship amount is $5,000 for one year. Students may use the funds at any accredited institution of higher learning for vocational training, undergraduate and graduate degrees, and may reapply up to seven years or to age 25.

To qualify for a Pinnacol Foundation scholarship, a student must be the child of a worker killed or seriously injured in a compensable work-related accident while employed by a Colorado business. The Foundation grants scholarships to students regardless of the insurance carrier. Scholarships are awarded based on the severity of the parent’s injury, financial need, academic achievement, social responsibility (including employment), recommendation letters, and a personal essay.

Please discuss this opportunity with patients and families who might qualify. For more information, please visit our website, send an email, or call us at 303.361.4775.