The Empowering Scholarships, provided by Children’s Cancer Connection (CCC), support students affected by childhood cancer in pursuing higher education. Established in 1988, CCC connects families impacted by childhood cancer, fostering community and providing resources like these scholarships. Thanks to donor generosity, the program is open to graduating high school seniors and current college students.

Eligibility requires applicants to be directly affected by childhood cancer, either as a patient diagnosed before age 18 or as a sibling of such a patient. Additionally, applicants must reside, have been diagnosed, or have received treatment within Iowa. Eligible students must be planning to attend or already enrolled in an accredited two- or four-year institution, including trade schools, colleges, or universities.

Applicants must submit a completed application, which includes a newly written essay of at least 750 words (previously submitted essays are not accepted). They also need to provide two letters of recommendation from school, medical, or business professionals, dated within six months of the application submission.

This scholarship program provides critical financial support for students pursuing post-secondary education while emphasizing community and resilience for those affected by childhood cancer. For more details or to begin the application process, potential applicants should reach out to CCC.