ROCKPORT — Now in its fourth year, the Twin Lights Beverages Trust is seeking applicants — — not only high school graduates but anyone of any age who wants to further his or her education — for its sizable scholarships.
Philip Hopkins, a trustee of the Twin Lights Beverages Trust, wants to encourage residents of Rockport and Gloucester to apply.
The trust is the legacy of local businessman Pierce Sears, who made Cape Ann’s beloved Twin Lights soda at a factory, which operated for more than a century, at the corner of Broadway and Main Street in Rockport.
“We are looking for applicants who have a desire to give back to the community and are highly motivated,” Hopkins said. “We have a lot of talent on Cape Ann and we want to empower those with financial need who want to better themselves and find better employment.”
That could mean a single mother or single father who wants to return to school, perhaps to finish a degree or earn a certain certification. It could be for people working in the trades who want further education or certifications. The trust’s mission is to help those who want to contribute to their community, whether with a local business, service or skill set.
“We are really trying to offer more to the community. We will consider anyone that is going back to school or tradespeople. This is for the betterment of the community and to help people obtain better employment opportunities with continuing education,” Hopkins said.
The awards can amount up to $20,000 to cover the academic year.
When looking over the requirements, any interested adult thinking about applying has options in providing the needed documents. In the case of the requirement for a letter of recommendation from someone within the applicant’s academic career who can testify to their character and work ethic, the applicant could reach out to a current or former employer for example, or even a clergy member who knows them well and could write a letter to show merit.
The application includes a two-page essay that answers the following question: “Where do I see a need in the Cape Ann community and, using my education goals and/or intended degree, how can I fill it?” Applications with essays suspected of using artificial intelligence to be written will not be considered.
“The goal is to expand the offerings within the community even now more than ever,” Hopkins said.
Confirmed awardees may apply annually with proof of enrollment in education or training, and must maintain good academic standing or training progress to be eligible for additional awards.
Details and applications are available at: www.twinlightstrust.org/apply. The deadline is April 1.
To date, the Twin Lights Beverages Trust has awarded more than $300,000 to students.