Financial Aid

The Ottawa Recreation Commission provides activities for all ages.  We offer youth program scholarships for families with children.  The goal of this program is to reduce the financial burdens that may inhibit participation in ORC programs. We use the same criteria that USD 290 uses for their Free and Reduced Lunch Program to determine scholarship eligibility for ORC programs.

Individuals residing in USD 290 and meeting the guidelines for USD 290’s free and reduced lunch program are eligible for 25% off individual youth program fee. Scholarships do not cover late fees.

There are ORC programs which are excluded from scholarship assistance.  Such programs include Entertainment “U”-An After School Program, Kid Camp, Camp Shine, Private Swimming Lessons, Challenger British Soccer Camp, Goppert Building Passes, Forest Park Pool Passes, Martial Arts, Youth Cheerleading, and all Adult Programs.  Additional exclusions may apply.

ORC Community Scholarship Form

This program affords patrons the opportunity to seek financial assistance through the Ottawa Recreation Commission by agreeing to work various jobs for a set amount of hours at a determined pay rate.  The pay for hours worked will be directly applied to the participant’s activity/program fee(s).  Filling out the application does not guarantee acceptance into the Play It Forward program.  All applicants will be reviewed and those who qualify will be notified.

There are ORC programs which are excluded from Play it Forward assistance.  Such programs include Entertainment “U”-An After School Program, Kid Camp, Camp Shine, Private Swimming Lessons, Challenger British Soccer Camp, Goppert Building Passes, Forest Park Pool Passes, Martial Arts, Youth Cheerleading, and all Adult Programs.  Additional exclusions may apply.

ORC Play It Forward Form – Apply Online

ORC Play It Forward Form – Paper Form

This is a $500 scholarship available to one full-time Ottawa High School senior. This scholarship is intended to encourage and reward a student’s community service, encourage students to work for Ottawa Recreation Commission, and encourage students to pursue a career in parks and recreation.

Eligibility

• Must be a full-time student in their senior year at Ottawa High School
• Must have been enrolled to attend college in Kansas after graduation
• Preference to students majoring in Parks and Recreation, Physical Education, or Sports Management
• Preference to students with ORC employment or volunteer work experience

Applications are accepted February 1 – April 30 this year. Early or late applications are not accepted. Finalists will be contacted for interviews. Please do not inquire about your status. The winner will be announced at the senior awards ceremony. The winner will be encouraged to gain experience by applying to work for ORC the following summer and/or fall.

ORC OHS Scholarship Form – Apply Online

ORC OHS Scholarship Form – Paper Form