The State Center Community College Foundation (SCCCF) accepted the anonymous donation of a house on Kingswood Parkway in Reedley this fall. The generous donation was facilitated in October 2008 by board member Gus Bonner, who works for Pearson Realty. The donor specified that $100,000 of the proceeds be distributed for a unique scholarship endowment entitled “Pay it Forward Endowment.” The balance from the sale of the house will go to the Old Administration Building (OAB) at Fresno City College to finish a classroom with “Pay it Forward” as its name.

The unique and exciting donation drew attention from other donors, students, staff and the media. Before the home was put up for bid, additional donors provided new carpet installation and paint for the home improvements. The wallpaper removal and painting was done by volunteer students and staff. Horticulture students volunteered their time and did a beautiful job sprucing up the front and back yards. The house was featured on Channel 30 during primetime with a video tour.

SCCCF Executive Director Gurdeep Sihota He’Bert explained that the donors wanted to challenge the community to “pay it forward.” A bid was accepted by the District earlier this month, and escrow is due to close at the end of March 2009.

Related posts:

• Scholarship endownment to help students for years to come
• SCCC Foundation begins innovative new scholarship with Employer to Employee Scholarships
• Group of leading donors plays important role in District
• The Kresge Foundation has awarded the college a challenge grant.