Cedar Valley Lodge #233 Educational Scholarship

At the heart of every strong community are the unsung heroes—individuals who may have been overlooked in their early years, often facing challenges that shaped their path long before high school ended. Some balanced school with jobs to support their families. Others navigated instability at home, personal loss, or obstacles that made a traditional path forward unclear. Still, they persevere—emerging as leaders, trusted colleagues, devoted fathers and mothers—just on a different timeline than their peers.

 

They are the ones who didn’t follow the expected script, but never lost their drive. The ones who kept showing up, kept working, and kept believing that something better was possible—for themselves and for those around them.

 

The Cedar Valley Odd Fellows Educational Scholarship is dedicated to those who have overcome adversity and continued forward with resilience. It honors individuals whose belief in a better future has never wavered, regardless of circumstance.

 

This scholarship is an investment in perseverance, character, and the quiet determination that builds stronger communities for us all.

​

Scholarship Details

• Minimum award: $1,000 per recipient

• Number of scholarships awarded: Determined annually based on available funding

• Funds may be used for tuition, books, or other qualified educational expenses

• Applicable for the next academic year

​

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be a current or former student of the Cedar Falls Community School District or surrounding communities

• Plan to enroll in an accredited college, university, trade school, or technical program

• Demonstrate perseverance through personal challenges or adversity

• Show a commitment to improving their life and/or contributing positively to their community

​

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

1. Completed application form

2. Personal statement (500–750 words) describing:

   • Challenges you have faced

   • How those experiences have shaped your character

   • Your goals and how education will help you achieve them

3. One letter of recommendation (teacher, employer, coach, or community leader)

4. Optional: Academic transcript or resume (recommended but not required)

​

How to Apply

1. Download the application.

2. Send your completed application and recommendation letter to:

Email:  hello@cedarvalleyoddfellows.org

Mail:   

Cedar Valley Odd Fellows, IOOF 

402 W. 2nd St

Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613

​

Submit your application by June 1, 2026.  Recipients will be notified by August 1, 2026.

​

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

• Strength of personal story and demonstrated resilience

• Commitment to personal growth and community impact

• Clarity of goals and alignment with continued education

​​

Award Conditions

Scholarship recipients will be required to provide proof of enrollment in an accredited college, university, trade school, apprenticeship, or certification program prior to disbursement of funds. Payments will be made directly to the educational institution or program provider whenever possible.

 

Questions

For questions or additional information, please contact us through the website or reach out directly to Cedar Valley Lodge 233.