Simone Grimes, Founder of Grimes Charitable Trust is Empowering Students through Education

The Grimes Charitable Trust is a philanthropic organization with a clear mission: to provide financial assistance to students who aspire to pursue higher education yet face financial barriers. Established to create pathways for academic success, Simone Grimes and the Grimes Charitable Trust are committed to fostering opportunities for students from all backgrounds. By offering scholarships and supporting access to education, the trust aims to make a meaningful impact on the lives of deserving young people.

At the heart of their mission is the belief that education is a powerful tool for empowering individuals and communities. The organization envisions a world where every student, regardless of their financial circumstances, has access to higher education. This vision drives the organization’s efforts to increase access to postsecondary education for graduating high school seniors and current college students who excel academically but require financial assistance to achieve their educational goals.

Simone Grimes is Creating Pathways to Success

The Grimes Charitable Trust and the Alfred Street Baptist Church Foundation (ASBCF) share this mission of supporting and empowering students through educational opportunities. By offering financial assistance to those who cannot afford college tuition, these scholarships create a pathway to success.

Together, these scholarships contribute to a larger ecosystem of support for students pursuing their academic dreams. Both initiatives highlight the power of philanthropy in creating opportunities for students to achieve their full potential.

The Survivor Legacy Scholarship

The Survivor Legacy Scholarship, established in 2021 by Shalvit Grimes, was created to support students who have endured challenges, particularly those who have experienced abuse, assault, or trauma. These traumatic experiences often bring unforeseen financial burdens, making it difficult for victims to continue their education. The scholarship aims to offer these students hope and resources to overcome these barriers. Since its inception, the Survivor Legacy Scholarship has helped numerous students continue their academic journeys, with support from Simone Grimes and the Grimes Charitable Trust.

Simone Grimes, a CPA specializing in corporate board succession planning, plays a crucial role in driving the organization’s commitment to education and philanthropy. Her dedication to youth development is evident in her involvement with Junior Achievement and Big Brothers Big Sisters, where she has worked to create opportunities for those in need. The Survivor Legacy Scholarship aligns with her belief in the transformative power of education and her commitment to supporting young people in overcoming adversity.

Alfred Street Baptist Church Foundation

This foundation has a well-established history of supporting educational initiatives and community service through various scholarship programs. The Survivor Legacy Scholarship is part of ASBCF’s broader effort to promote educational access and support deserving students. The scholarship offers awards ranging from $1,000 to $30,000, depending on eligibility criteria and need.

To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must demonstrate financial hardship, maintain a solid academic record, and a strong commitment to community service. They must also reside within the Washington, DC, metropolitan area and be committed to attending a four-year institution. Additionally, you do NOT have to be a member of Alfred Street Baptist Church to apply for the ASBC Foundation scholarships.

Additional Scholarship Programs and Eligibility Criteria

The Grimes Charitable Trust also offers a range of scholarships to support students in the Washington, DC area. Simone Grimes explains that these programs are designed to recognize academic excellence while addressing financial needs in the community. To be eligible, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Graduate from a High School in the Washington, DC, Metropolitan Area: This includes Washington, DC; Alexandria, VA; Arlington County, VA; Fairfax County, VA; Falls Church, VA; Prince William County, VA; Prince Georges County, MD; Montgomery County, MD; and Charles County, MD.
• Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
• Applicants must be admitted to and plan to attend a four-year college or university.
• The trust values applicants who actively participate in community service and give back to their communities.
• Applicants should maintain a grade point average of 2.5 or higher and have SAT/ACT scores (if available).
• The trust seeks to support students who require financial assistance to pursue their educational goals.

Students who face unique financial hardships—such as being from a single-parent household, being the first in their family to attend college, or having significant medical or personal expenses—are encouraged to share these details in their scholarship applications. These narratives help the trust understand the context of the student’s financial need and why assistance is crucial for their academic success.

The organization also considers external factors, such as regional cost-of-living variations, school fees, and the cost of essential supplies and resources for college. By examining a range of indicators, the Grimes Charitable Trust aims to ensure that financial assistance reaches those who truly need it, creating pathways for these students to fulfill their educational dreams and achieve their career goals.

Conclusion

The Grimes Charitable Trust’s dedication to education and empowering students is a beacon of hope for those seeking higher education. By providing financial assistance and creating opportunities for students in the Washington, DC area, Simone Grimes CPA is helping to build a brighter future for individuals and communities.

If you’re interested in learning more about these scholarship programs or want to apply for financial assistance, visit the ASBC Foundation’s website for the Survivor Legacy Scholarship, or reach out to the Grimes Charitable Trust for information on their annual scholarships. If you have additional questions or need assistance with the application process, you can contact the Alfred Street Baptist Church Foundation at 325 South Patrick Street, Alexandria, VA 22314.

By supporting these organizations, you can help empower the next generation of scholars, leaders, and community advocates. Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter future for all.