The world has changed. How you can help
The world has changed.
As everyone works together to navigate the numerous and serious challenges resulting from the new coronavirus, Clark College and Clark College Foundation are working diligently to support our brave students as they continue to pursue their education goals. These uncertain times have created new hurdles, including how our students will now pursue their studies, which at this point is exclusively online. Clark College announced a virtual commencement in June, with details still to come. On April 20, most students began the spring quarter exclusively online. Those who require hands-on training will have to wait until the state government’s “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” emergency order ends. Federal stimulus money for short-term financial relief will help Clark and its students with immediate needs. However, the funds will not address long-term necessities for keeping students in class so that they complete their education. 
This shift does not come easily or inexpensively. This is the reason we need your help like never before to support and encourage our students.
Three Ways You Can Help
Specifically, Clark College Foundation is asking our generous alumni, friends and donors to support three critically important areas:
Flexible scholarships. These funds give Clark College flexibility to provide tuition support to all kinds of students in numerous ways, including funds to make sure our students complete their studies and not drop out due to financial challenges brought on by the public health pandemic.
Clark College Student Emergency Fund. When the unexpected—like the novel coronavirus—becomes the reality, even so-called incidental costs can make the difference between success and failure. Food insecurities, transportation, medical bills, child care, even a reliable computer and internet service can profoundly affect students desperate to maintain themselves and their families while they continue studying.
Greatest Needs Fund. Few people could have forecast the tumult and economic impact of COVID-19. In this constantly changing situation, it is almost impossible to anticipate what is coming around the corner. Clark College Foundation needs to be able to respond as effectively and efficiently as possible as challenges and needs emerge in real time. Support of our Greatest Needs Fund allows Clark College Foundation to address developing and future realities. The ability to be proactive in an unstable world can make all the difference to the foundation, the college and our students.
Now is the time
Please consider making a gift to one or more of these funds. The easiest way is to give online, any time or mail a check to Clark College Foundation 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver, WA. 98663-3598.
The office is closed to the general public until further notice due to Gov. Jay Inslee’s Stay at Home declaration. However, we can assist you by appointment when you call 360.992.2301.
We’ll continue to keep you posted about how your gift is making a difference. Watch this website, our social media, Clark Partners Magazine, Penguin Post enewsletter and Penguin Chats, our popular podcast series. We’ll continue to provide you with opportunities to make contributions to help during this pandemic. Follow us on Twitter @CCF_Foundation and @alumniclark and Facebook @clarkcollegealumni
Also, please take the time to chat with someone from Clark College Foundation if they reach out to you. Your past support and leadership have been outstanding. We know we can rely on you to support Clark’s students again during this difficult time.
For more information, questions or concerns, contact Lisa Gibert, CEO, at lgibert@supportclark.org or Joel B. Munson, chief advancement officer, at jmunson@supportclark.org
Thank you for everything you have done and continue to do for the Penguin Nation. We wish you and your family continued good health and safety during this uncertain time.
Our office building is closed until further notice. Our limited office staff is available by appointment only. Please contact foundation@supportclark.org or 360-992-2301.