We currently accept applications through the referrals of the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools’ Family Specialists. They are familiar with the children of their school and know if they qualify. The application is available under APPLY page and must be signed by the student, parent/guardian and the student’s Family Specialist.
How long does the approval process take?
Applications are reviewed monthly – applications received by the end of the month are normally turned around within two weeks. Every application has to be reviewed and voted on by the Applications Review Committee.
Who decides if I get funding?
Every application is reviewed and voted on by the Applications Review Committee.
When do I get the money?
All funding is paid directly to the organizations, when the money has been paid the applicant is contacted.
Can I be reimbursed?
We do not reimburse for past activities. Therefore, it’s important for your application to be received in a timely manner to give plenty of time for the approval process.
What’s a good pay it forward project for my child?
All children, no matter their age, are capable of doing a kind deed for someone. See below or download the Time Log for some volunteering ideas. Below are some pay it forward projects a recipient can do. SKJAJA also hosts “SKJAJA Saturdays” which are group community service projects. Ask your social worker or contact SKJAJA directly for details. We ask that the project not be something they have already committed to through school or church. We want them to perform a task that acts as “pay back” for the money received. Please call/email with any questions, because there are always ways to help others no matter what our own circumstances.
Below are some ideas of projects a recipient can do. SKJAJA also hosts “SKJAJA Saturdays” which are group community service projects. Ask your social worker or contact SKJAJA directly for details. We ask that the project not be something they have already committed to through school or church. We want them to perform a task that acts as “pay back” for the money received. Please call/email with any questions, because there are always ways to help others no matter what our own circumstances.
Kindergarten-2nd grade
Participate in a “SKJAJA Saturday”
Clean up school grounds or neighborhood (one recipient picked up trash on walks with grandmother)
Plant garden at school or neighborhood
Assist neighbor with chores
Make cards for children or elderly in hospitals/nursing homes
3rd-5th grade
Participate in a “SKJAJA Saturday”
Make a housewarming gift for a new neighbor
Read to or help younger student with homework
Pick up trash in neighborhood
6th-8th grade
Assist younger students with a project (one recipient helped a 1st grade class plant a garden at their school)
Volunteer at school (one recipient volunteered at summer camp at her elementary school)
Assist teacher after school
Baby-sit for free
Mow a neighbor’s lawn
9th-12th grade
Tutor other students
Assist teacher after school
Volunteer at a non-profit
Run a canned food drive or book drive for less fortunate children
