Kayla

In November, 2007, The Tallman Foundation began our scholarship program by visiting both St. John's and Sisler High Schools. We had informed the two Winnipeg North End High Schools that The Tallman Foundation was in a position to support a “Full” Scholarship plus bus fare to one student from St. John's High and one student from Sisler High School.

At St. John's High School, the guidance councilor selected nine students based on the criteria we provided. The Tallman Foundation criteria was simple: a student who is kind, giving, and respectful and maintains "very good marks". We want to help “one child at a time” and by doing so, this person is a gives of herself/himself through volunteerism, does “not” have the highest marks in the school and truly deserves a chance to have a post-secondary education without the worries of a student loan. The Tallman Foundation totally supports the full financial commitment till completion of the first degree.

Teachers from grades ten to twelve were to check off which one of the students presented would make the ideal candidate. That is how Kayla was selected!

In true to form, Kayla called me to ask if she could volunteer at our Fun Ride. She helped out as riders entered the finish line.

A Poem from Kayla
Living in Winnipeg's "North End" comes with a certain reputation. But I find that not many know the truth and there are a lot of misinterpretations.

Poverty, violence, and danger are almost always associated to the North End But there is more to it than what it seems, and this I feel you must comprehend.

Although violence and danger may occur occasionally here, It is not as worse as how the media portrays it to appear.

Although this area may not have the highest income families, Or even the houses and buildings do not have extra accessories.

This area is just like any other area that you would see, despite these things. And if you open your eyes, you too will see what this area is capable to bring.

A community is not only about the area you live, but it is about the people in it. There are some of the most generous and caring people from here I have to admit.

The North End is a community that is always willing to help each other. A community that comes together in times of need, to be there for one another.

I attended St. John's High School from grade seven till graduation. And I cannot imagine being anywhere else to have received my education.

The programs that are offered provide a fun and motivating way to teach students. And because of this students created more of an educational commitment.

The teachers have such caring hearts and help in anyway that they are able to. And when leaving this school one of the hardest things to do was bid them adieu.

These are the things that are unclear to people and that most people don't see. This school and community is a great place, and now that you know I hope you agree.

Growing up here has helped me become who I am today. And I wouldn't want to trade that for anything any day.

I have been able to be of some help to make my school a place that students want to be. And to be able to dedicate my time to help my community to a certain degree.

I would never have thought to do these things without having lived here. As growing up here has only motivated me to get involved and volunteer.

It is rare to encounter anyone that has faith in the people from the North End. But I have this year and I must tell you of the help they've extend.

The Tallman Foundation has offered to pay for four years of my secondary tuition. And not to only myself, but to two other students from the North End in addition.

It is my goal to become a pediatrician one day and didn't think I could. This was because I did not have the money and couldn't afford it from where I stood.

Because of The Tallman Foundation I am able to continue on with my education. I am so thankful that they have helped me in my situation.

I now am I able to go to school everyday and not have to worry on my mind. I can't show how much I appreciate this, no words can define.

The Tallman Foundation has only just begun from what they want to do. And because of them I can follow my dreams, with all my heart thank you.