Friends of The Petaluma - Educational Scholarships and Student Financial Aid Services

Our Educational Services

Empowering students through comprehensive scholarship programs and financial aid services designed to make education accessible for all

At Friends of The Petaluma River, we are dedicated to supporting students in their educational journey by providing targeted financial assistance, scholarship opportunities, and comprehensive student aid services. Our mission is to remove financial barriers and create pathways to academic success for deserving students in our community.

Our Commitment: We believe that every student deserves access to quality education regardless of their financial circumstances. Through our grantmaking foundation and charitable trust, we award scholarships and provide student financial aid services that transform lives and build stronger communities.

Educational advisor working one-on-one with a student at a desk, reviewing scholarship application documents and personal statement drafts in a bright, welcoming office environment
Featured Service Oct 15, 2025

Scholarship Application Assistance

Our dedicated team provides personalized guidance throughout the scholarship application process. We help students identify suitable opportunities, craft compelling personal statements, and submit complete applications before deadlines. We've helped over 500 students access more than $2 million in funding.

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Professional grant writers collaborating at a conference table with laptops and documents, developing funding proposals for educational programs and community initiatives
Success Stories Nov 22, 2025

Grant Writing Services

Comprehensive grant writing services for schools, educational nonprofits, and community programs seeking funding. Our experienced writers assist with proposal development, budget preparation, and submission coordination. Recent success includes securing $350,000 for after-school programs and $125,000 for STEM initiatives.

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Financial aid counselor leading a workshop for families, explaining FAFSA forms and financial aid packages on a large screen in a community center classroom setting
Free Service Sep 8, 2025

Financial Aid Counseling

Navigate the complex world of financial aid with our expert-led workshops and individual counseling sessions. We provide step-by-step guidance on completing the FAFSA, understanding award letters, and exploring alternative funding sources. Last year, we assisted 320 families, resulting in an average of $8,500 in additional aid per student.

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Scholarship award ceremony with students receiving certificates and checks, celebrating academic excellence and community leadership achievements in an auditorium setting
Merit-Based Awards Dec 3, 2025

Scholarship Programs

Friends of The Petaluma administers several merit-based scholarship and recognition programs honoring academic excellence, community service, and leadership. Our flagship programs include the Petaluma Excellence Scholarship ($5,000), Community Leadership Award ($2,500), and First-Generation College Student Grant ($3,000). Since 2020, we've distributed over $450,000 to 180 deserving students.

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Modern resource library with students using computers and browsing educational materials, college preparation guides, and scholarship databases in a well-lit study space
Open Access Jan 19, 2026

Resource Library & Student Support

Access our comprehensive collection of educational resources, scholarship databases, and student success tools. Our resource library includes up-to-date scholarship listings, college preparation materials, career exploration guides, and financial literacy resources. We maintain partnerships with over 200 colleges and universities. Open Tuesday through Saturday with evening hours during peak application seasons.

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Need Help Choosing?

Not sure which service is right for you? Our team is here to help guide you to the resources and support that best fit your educational goals and financial needs.

All services are provided at no cost to students and families in the Petaluma area.