Home / Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about the Indian River State College Foundation? We’re here to help. Explore answers to frequently asked questions about giving, scholarships, the Foundation’s work, and the many ways you can support students and Indian River State College.
Still have questions?
About the Foundation
What is the Indian River State College Foundation?
The Indian River State College Foundation is a nonprofit organization that supports the mission of Indian River State College by providing scholarships, student assistance, academic program support, campus improvements, and funding for initiatives that help students succeed.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes. The Indian River State College Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
How do I contact the Foundation?
You can reach the Indian River State College Foundation by phone at (772) 462-4786, by email at foundation@irsc.edu, or by visiting the Foundation office at 3209 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce, FL 34981.
Can businesses and organizations partner with the Foundation?
Yes. The Foundation offers opportunities for corporate sponsorships, community partnerships, scholarship support, program funding, and event sponsorships. These partnerships help strengthen both student success and the local workforce. For more information please contact us by calling (772) 462-4786, or by email at foundation@irsc.edu.
Giving & Donations
How does my donation make an impact?
Your gift helps remove financial barriers for students and supports programs that strengthen education, workforce development, and economic growth throughout the Treasure Coast and Okeechobee region. Donations may support scholarships, the Promise Program, student success initiatives, facilities, faculty, and other areas of need.
How does my donation make an impact?
Your gift helps remove financial barriers for students and supports programs that strengthen education, workforce development, and economic growth throughout the Treasure Coast and Okeechobee region. Donations may support scholarships, the Promise Program, student success initiatives, facilities, faculty, and other areas of need.
Can I choose where my donation goes?
Yes. Donors may direct their gifts to a specific scholarship, academic program, department, student-support initiative, or another area that aligns with their interests. You may also choose to support the Foundation’s greatest needs.
Can I make a recurring gift?
Absolutely. Monthly giving is a convenient way to provide ongoing support and create a lasting impact for students throughout the year. For help setting your recurring gift, call us at (772) 462-4786, or by email at foundation@irsc.edu.
How do I establish a scholarship?
Donors can create either annual or endowed scholarships to help students achieve their educational goals. The Foundation team can work with you to design a scholarship that reflects your interests, values, or legacy.
What is an endowed scholarship?
An endowed scholarship is a permanent fund that is invested over time. Earnings from the investment are used to provide scholarship awards year after year, creating a lasting legacy for future generations of students.
How can I learn more about planned giving?
Planned giving allows supporters to make a lasting impact through their estate plans, trusts, retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and other charitable giving vehicles. Contact the Foundation team to discuss options that align with your financial and philanthropic goals.
Can I donate in honor or memory of someone?
Yes. Tribute and memorial gifts are meaningful ways to honor a loved one, celebrate a special occasion, or recognize someone who has made a difference in your life. Contact the Foundation team by calling (772) 462-4786, by email at foundation@irsc.edu for assistance with establishing a tribute gift.
Promise Program
What does “Last-Dollar” mean?
The Promise Program operates as a “last-dollar” scholarship, meaning it covers the remaining cost of tuition after all other grant aid and scholarships have been applied. For example, if a student receives a Pell Grant covering 50% of tuition, the Promise Program funds the remaining 50%, ensuring eligible students can pursue their education tuition-free. This model allows philanthropic support to maximize impact, helping more students access higher education while reducing financial barriers for local families.
Is there an income limit?
No. The Promise Program is not means-tested and is available to all eligible high school graduates within the Indian River State College service district, regardless of household income or financial background. The program was designed to create broad access to higher education by ensuring that every qualifying student has the opportunity to pursue a college degree tuition-free. By making Promise available to students from all economic backgrounds, the program strengthens educational attainment, workforce development, and long-term economic vitality throughout the region.
Does it cover books or housing?
No. The Promise Program covers tuition. It does not cover fees, textbooks, transportation, or housing. The Promise Program is designed to remove the barrier of tuition costs. However, students remain responsible for additional educational and living expenses, including fees, textbooks, supplies, transportation, housing, meals, and other personal costs associated with attending college. By covering tuition, Promise allows students and families to focus their resources on other important educational expenses such as books, transportation, housing, and supplies, making higher education more accessible and affordable for our community.
Take Stock in Children
When does the Take Stock in Children Application for current 9th grade students for the 2026-2027 school year open?
On Monday, October 26th, 2026.
Who is eligible to apply for the scholarship?
Current 9th grade students attending a public or public charter high school in Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee or St. Lucie counties.
What are the requirements to apply for the scholarship?
Eligible students must have at least a 2.0 GPA, show financial need, and be academically motivated to attend college post high school graduation.
I have more questions. Who can I contact?
You may contact Karen Aldana, Program Director at kaldana@irsc.edu or 772-462-7252. Se Habla Español.