What is the SOAR Foundation's purpose?
We are a non-profit, non-religious, and non-political organization dedicated to providing scholarships so indigent students in China can continue their secondary, vocational and higher education. We were founded in California in 1995.
Who receives SOAR Scholarships?
Academically excellent students who lack the funding to continue their high school or similar level vocational school education. They are mostly between the ages of 15-18, and live in remote regions of China.
How is the SOAR Scholarship distributed?
Local teachers in China help distribute our scholarship application forms to students in need who live in our target regions. The completed applications are sent to the SOAR Foundation Evaluation Committee located in the U.S. and selections are made after three levels of review. Using the local Postal Office Deposit Service, the SOAR office in Beijing mails the money directly to the scholarship recipients.
How are SOAR Scholarship funds used by the selected students?
The annual scholarship fund is used to help cover tuitions and fees, and to purchase books. The amount is US$450 for high school and vocational school recipient, and US$700 for college student.
How does SOAR Foundation ascertain how the scholarship funds are used?
- After receiving funding the scholarship recipient will mail the receipt back to SOAR Foundation. Records are kept in the SOAR headquarter in USA. Specifics are available for review by the donors.
- Through direct correspondence, mentors can get a better picture of the student's life situation.
- Using their own funding, SOAR Foundation members get a first-hand knowledge of how the funds are used during periodic onsite visits.
Who are the student mentors?
Student mentors are SOAR Foundation members and supporters. Through personal correspondence, mentors provide moral support for scholarship recipients and get to understand how the scholarship funds are used. Mentors present feedback to the Scholarship Committee at the end of the year.
What does the SOAR Foundation expenditure come from?
SOAR Foundation expenditure comes from general donations and membership dues. Donations are designated exclusively for scholarship use. Membership due is US$25.00 per year, and US$500.00 for lifetime membership. All SOAR Foundation workers are non-salaried volunteers.
Are donations to SOAR Foundation tax deductible?
Yes. The foundation’s 501C-3 tax ID number is 94-3255490.